Nicoletta C. Nance

Dr. Nicki Nance, PhD, passed on May 3, 2025 in Inverness, Florida, at the age of 77. A trailblazer in the fields of mental health counseling and education, Nicki leaves behind a legacy defined by compassion, intellect, and an unwavering commitment to the betterment of others.

Born on March 16, 1948 in Pittsburgh, PA, Nicki dedicated her life to understanding and uplifting the human experience. Over several decades, she worked tirelessly as a counselor and consultant, advocating for mental health awareness and neurodiversity education. She was a gifted educator who taught undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral level students, who consistently praised her unique insight and “Nicki-isms” which made even the most complex topics accessible and engaging. Known for being knowledgeable yet approachable—and always inspiring—she brought light into every space she entered.

Nicki’s professional accomplishments were matched only by her devotion to family. She is survived by her beloved husband Buddy Nance; daughters Katarina and Michelle Kapisoda and their granddaughter A'niyah; Step-son Kristopher and his children: Alyssa (husband Michael Soule and their children Archie, Micah, Ace, and Macy), Alec (fiancée Hailey and their son Aerick), Autumn and her son Jace, and Addison; Step-son Jeff, his wife Bridget, and their children Jackson and Lincoln; Step-son Brian, his wife Dorci, and their son Maddox; Step-son Brett, his wife Kayla, and their children Zaide, Zandon, Zavery, and Zyrin; Step-son Jason and his children Kylie, Jason Jr., and Khloe; and her dear cousin Gina Popovich. Nicki’s spirit touched not only those closest to her, but also countless friends, students, and colleagues world-round.

Her profound impact will continue through the many lives she influenced. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew her and serve as a guiding light for future generations committed to empathy, learning, and healing.

In lieu of a service or flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Nicki’s memory to the Beacon College Scholarship fund: https://form-renderer-app.donorperfect.io/give/beacon-college/dr-nance-scholarship-donations.