Florida — A soft light has gone out in our community with the passing of Nancy Sozansky, a woman remembered not only for the roles she played—mother, teacher, wife, and friend—but for the quiet warmth and joy she brought into every room she entered.
Nancy was not famous, not flashy, but she was known—a steady, beautiful presence in the lives of many. She showed up for life in the most meaningful ways: girls’ nights, school events, family parties, outings with friends, and all the shared moments that make life feel full. For those lucky enough to have called her a friend, even casually, she left a lasting imprint of grace, kindness, and authenticity.
Her passing has hit hard, especially for those who knew she had been ill but expected—hoped—she would pull through. “She was strong,” said one friend. “I thought she’d get better. And when she did, we’d celebrate. But now we won’t have that chance.”
There is pain, and also regret, among those who now wish they had shown up more, reached out more, loved more loudly. It’s a reminder—one Nancy leaves us with—that time is fleeting and love is a verb. If we want to be part of the joy in people’s lives, we must also be there in the pain.
Nancy was the kind of friend who made you laugh, made you feel seen, and made the ordinary days feel extraordinary. Her smile could brighten the darkest day. Her strength in the face of illness was quiet but fierce. Her love for her family—unwavering.
She was a teacher in every sense—not only in the classroom, but in how she lived. And in her passing, she teaches us still: Show up. Love out loud. Don’t wait until it’s too late.
To Nancy’s family—our hearts are with you. May the memories of her laughter, her love, and her vibrant spirit carry you through this unimaginable time. And to Nancy: your life mattered. You will never be forgotten.
Rest in peace, beautiful friend. You were loved more than you knew.
