Nancy Jean Cassese

Nancy Jean Cassese, 67, of Worcester and formerly of Shrewsbury, passed away peacefully on Friday, November 21, 2025, at the UMass Memorial Hospital in Worcester, surrounded by her loving family.

Born in the Bronx, NY, Nancy was a daughter of the late Joseph and Antoinette (Gattanella) Cassese. She was raised and educated in New City, NY, graduating from Clarkstown Senior High School before earning her associate degree in nursing from Rockland Community College in Suffern, NY. She began her nursing career in New York City hospitals as a registered nurse and later worked in several nursing homes in New City.

She moved to Shrewsbury Massachusetts in 1988 to be closer to her sister, where she continued her nursing career until the birth of her daughter. From that point forward, she devoted herself wholeheartedly to raising children, a role she embraced with deep love and joy.

Nancy is survived by her three treasured children: Danielle Qualey of Shrewsbury, Anthony Qualey and his wife Charleigh of North Brookfield, and Ryan Qualey and his wife Edivani of Worcester; her five cherished grandchildren, Anthony Jr., Kayden, Danica-Mae, Gianna, and Luca; her beloved sister Luann Kittelson and her husband Curt of Shrewsbury; her adored nephews Todd and Keith Kittelson; and extended family members Richard and Dolores Qualey of Shrewsbury.

Nancy is predeceased by her brother, Anthony Cassese, whom she loved deeply. Nancy was known for her warm spirit and social nature. She was an active and cherished member of her apartment community and shared an especially close bond with her sister, Luann. She enjoyed spending time with her children, family and those closest to her. She especially enjoyed being Nana to her 5 grandchildren. Visits with family and friends were special, along with fun thrift shopping outings followed by stops to Papa Gino’s, or day trips out visiting the beach (she especially loved the times she spent in St.Thomas and Mexico). She found joy in the little things, gathering with family and friends, cooking delicious meals, laughing, joking and sharing her love with those around her.

A celebration of life will be held privately with Nancy’s family as she wished. Please feel free to share your memories of her in the guestbook as a tribute and a way to honor her life. The link can be found at the bottom of the obituary. Thank you, and may her beautiful, loving spirit continue to shine brightly.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be sent to the American Lung Association.

The Pickering & Son Upton Funeral Home is honored to be assisting Nancy's family with arrangements.