Nancy Jean Lewis passed away peacefully into eternal life on March 30, 2026, surrounded by her family after a long, courageous battle with Dementia/Alzheimer’s.
She was born on Aug 8th, 1943, in Elmira, New York, to the late Aley and Teresa White. She spent her childhood years with her family residing in Pine Valley, NY. Nancy dedicated 52 years to Elmira College as the Baker. After her husband Frank passed away, she moved to Watkins Glen, NY, to be with her daughter, Teresa Tornari, until she retired and moved to Virginia with Teresa and her son-in-law, Dominick Fazzary Jr.
She was preceded in death by her husband and love of her life, Franklin Lewis, her brothers Sonny and Stephen White, sister Shirley Edmondson, and ex-husband Joseph Tornari.
She leaves behind her children—Joel Tornari (Helaine Fingold) and Teresa Tornari (Dominick Fazzary Jr.)—who will forever carry her love with them. Nancy also leaves cherished grandchildren, Louisa and Mattea Tornari, sisters Patricia Strader and Vickie Gush, and other extended relatives, along with dear friends who will miss her warmth and steady presence.
She loved her family immensely, which included her cats and grand- dogs. She enjoyed gardening and crafting. She was always out in her yard making it beautiful. She was a strong, compassionate, and hard-working woman who would give the shirt off her back to anyone in need.
There will be no calling hours. A private graveside ceremony will be held at a later date.
We have loved each other since the beginning
love each other still
and forever.
Thank you, Mom, for everything.
Donations to the Schuyler County Animal Shelter or Alzheimer’s Association in lieu of flowers.
