Nancy Cass "Nan" Strohla

Old Lyme - Nancy "Nan" Cass Strohla, of Old Lyme, passed away peacefully at home Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025, at the age of 92.

Born Oct. 28, 1933, in East Orange, N.J., Nancy was the daughter of Robert and Doris Cass. On June 18, 1955, she married Leroy "Lee" V. Strohla Jr. Together they shared a rich life filled with sailing, crabbing off the dock, entertaining, lively games of bridge, and a deep mutual love of reading. Lee predeceased Nancy in 1996.

Nancy cherished the moments she spent with her family. She is survived by her daughter, Patti Strohla of Vermont; her son, Peter Strohla and his wife, Lori; her grandchildren: Patrish of Vermont, Nicholas, Cameron, Shelby, Aubrey and Emily; her great-granddaughter Sierra; her brother, John William "Billy" Cass of New Jersey; and her sister-in-law, Margaret Strohla D'Aquila and her husband, Tom; along with many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her twin sister, Pat Cass; and her brother, Robert "Spike" Cass Jr., both of Cape Cod. Her sister-in-law, Sharon Stella Cass of New Jersey, passed away shortly after Nancy.

A lifelong learner with an enduring curiosity, Nancy's love of teaching, literacy and reading shaped both her career and her community involvement. Known for her dry, quick wit, she delighted in spirited games of bridge, attending the theater, and cooking and entertaining for friends and family. Her gift for fostering meaningful connections carried through her teaching years and into lasting friendships throughout her life.

Deeply invested in the well-being of her community and environment, Nancy tended her gardens with care and was a longtime member of the Duck River Garden Club. She generously gave her time as a literacy tutor, volunteered at the Phoebe Griffin Noyes Library, and served on several town committees. Through shared interests, a good meal or warm drink, and thoughtful conversation, Nancy offered steady warmth and support to those around her. She was dearly loved and will be greatly missed.

A Celebration of Nancy's Life will be held at 3:30 p.m. EST Saturday, Feb. 28, at the First Congregational Church of Old Lyme and will be immediately followed by a light reception in the Sheffield Room.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Nancy's memory may be made to Middlesex Health Hospice or the Old Lyme Land Trust.