Nancy A. Oakley

Nancy Ann (Nichols) Oakley, 86, of Binghamton, New York passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by family on November 28, 2025. She fought a courageous battle with cancer when the Lord called upon her and fulfilled her wishes to be reunited with her husband Richard "Dick", the love of her life.
Nancy's greatest pride and joy was her family and she shared a special bond with each of them. She was a guiding light, always a constant source of love, wisdom, faith, patience, encouragement and support. She is survived by her daughter, Valerie Jones, her son Jeff (Gwyn) Oakley, grandchildren Steve and Erin Jones; Taylor, Jordan and Connor (Ellen) Oakley, great grandchildren Jesse and Josie Jones, Jade and Parker Oakley; her brother Robert (Marilyn) Nichols, her nephews Rob & Brad Nichols.
Nancy was born on June 18, 1939 to Vernon and Margie Nichols in Oneonta, NY. She graduated from Oneonta High School and Vassar Brothers Hospital School of Nursing, Poughkeepsie, NY.
Nancy led a strong Christian life and a very active member of Nimmonsburg United Methodist Church for over 60 years. Nancy's warm heart and compassion to help others made everyone's day brighter with her positive personality, cheerful smile, engaging conversations and genuinely kind and caring ways. She was dedicated to improving the lives for others and making our world a better place to live. She was more concerned about others and eager to do whatever she could to help, comfort or just listen.
Nancy was a dedicated, hardworking and well-respected Registered Nurse for over 40 years. She worked at United Health Services, Broome County CASA, substitute school nurse, and volunteered at Broome County Council of Churches. After her admirable nursing career, Nancy and Richard continued their lifelong commitment to helping others as volunteers with the American Red Cross Disaster Relief. As a team they supported many disasters including their quick call to action at the sight of 9/11 Twin Towers the day after.
Nancy truly enjoyed attending her children's, grandchildren's and great grandchildren's school and sporting events, always cheering them on. She loved animals and also enjoyed cooking, bird watching, knitting and refurbishing furniture. She was an avid gardener and was a member of the Binghamton and Endwell Garden Club. Nancy especially enjoyed family vacations, traveling, golf and spending time at the beach. She was physically active and a lifelong member of the YMCA. Music was in her soul and with her beautiful voice she participated in the church choir, Madrigal Choir of Binghamton, playing piano and hand bells. Nancy enjoyed working with her church friends as coordinator of countless community dinners, barbecues and luncheons.
Nancy was preceded in death by her loving husband Richard Oakley of 64 years and her parents Vernon and Margie Nichols.
In honor of Nancy, please help others through acts of kindness and consider supporting the American Red Cross by donating blood, volunteering or a kind donation.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate her life at Nimmonsburg United Methodist Church, 918 Front St. Binghamton, NY 13905 on Saturday December 13, 2025. Visitation begins at 10am followed by a service at 12pm with Pastor Harold Wheat.