September 29, 1942 - March 27, 2025

Nancy Lou Foss (Wiley) Ripley, 82, passed away on March 27, 2025, at her daughter's home after a brave battle with a progressive neurodegenerative disease. She was surrounded by the love of her family in her final days.

Born on September 29, 1942, in Lewiston, Idaho, Nancy was the daughter of Grace May McKissick and Roy G. Foss. After losing her mother at a young age, she spent much of her childhood living with her maternal grandparents, Lelia and Jim McKissick. Later she was reunited with her father, Roy, stepmother Lucille M. Westmoreland Foss, and brother Rodney L. Foss in Cheney, Washington, where she graduated from high school as valedictorian.

Nancy married Benjamin H. Wiley in 1960, and they were together until 1966 during which time she bore 2 daughters, Lori and Lisa. In 1967, she married Raymond D. Ripley, whom she met in Council Bluffs, Iowa. Together with Nancy's daughters, they relocated to Fairbanks, Alaska, where Ray was stationed with the Air Force. Nancy worked full-time as a legal assistant. During this time, they also owned and operated a printing company, CopyCat.

The Ripley family cherished their time in Alaska, where they built lasting memories camping, fishing, and enjoying life to the fullest, even tap dancing at the state fairs. In 1972, after six wonderful years in Alaska, Ray's Air Force retirement relocated them to Spokane, Washington.

In Spokane, Nancy spent some time working as a Kelley Girl before joining URM Stores. She started in the food service department, later advancing to a successful career in accounting and eventually becoming an Account Executive in the insurance department, where she remained until her retirement. Always active, she also served as vice president on the board of Horizon Credit Union and volunteered on the board of the Spokane Police Museum.

In her personal life, Nancy shared her passion for the Seattle Seahawks with Ray and enjoyed a diverse range of activities, including reading, dining out, exploring food, bowling, playing bridge, and serving as a court-appointed liaison. She also obtained her AA degree in business, showcasing her dedication to lifelong learning.

Nancy is survived by her daughters, Lori K. Hallett and Lisa L. Haglund; eight grandchildren, Amber M. Allenton, Brandon M. Allenton, Ryan M. Hallett, Brianna N. Hallett Krapas (Leif) , Joshua N. Haglund, Emma B. Haglund, Grace S. Haglund, and Rebecca F. (Haglund) Webb (Zachary); and four great-grandchildren, Juillian A. Blair, Lilly M. Allenton, Rowan L. Krapas, and Sylvie L. Krapas. Nancy was preceded in death by her husband, Raymond D. Ripley; two grandchildren, Brandy N. Allenton and Caleb D. Haglund; and son-in-law, Randall J. Haglund.

Nancy will be remembered for her unwavering love and commitment for her family, faith in God, and her zest for life. She touched the hearts of all who knew her and leaves behind a legacy of kindness and joy and will be deeply missed by her family and friends.

A celebration of Nancy's life will be held at First Free Methodist Church, at 1725 W. Courtland, Spokane, WA, on April 11th, 2025, at 1pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to a charity of your choice in Nancy's memory.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Spokesman-Review on Apr. 6, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for Nancy RIPLEY

1 Entry

judith wirth

April 7, 2025

I knew Nancy in High School and never knew she was raised by her granparents before moving to Cheney. We kept in touch for many, many years, including time in Germany. She weathered good times and difficult ones but came out stronger and found the love of her life in Ray. She loved her daughters her grandkids with her whole heart. Was hoping to see her one more time but now she has gone. Condolences to her family who will surely miss her.

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