Obituary of Nancy Hamilton

Roosevelt - Dr. Nancy Hamilton, aged 65, passed away peacefully at home in Roosevelt, NJ, on March 21. She is survived by her mother, Mildred; her husband, Mike; three daughters, Jessica (36), Katy (33), and Laurel (31); and grandsons, Jude (5) and Tarn (2), who called her 'Gaga'. Nancy was devoted to her family, community, work, and clients. After receiving her doctorate in psychology from Rutgers University, she worked both in private practice and spent 25 years with the Millstone Township School District. Nancy empowered children and adolescents to progress toward their goals and adapt to life's challenges. She worked with foster care families at IEP Youth Services in Freehold, and was an associate professor at Kean College. Nancy continued to meet with clients in her office when getting up the stairs was a challenge, and then by phone when she was confined to bed. Nancy built harmony in every group in which she found herself, including as a singer in several local folk bands. Although petite in size, many will remember the strength (and speed) in her walking stride. When her active body was incapacitated by ALS, her brilliant mind, compassionate spirit and soothing voice comforted everyone around her until her last breath. She handled her disease with defiant grace. As a two time breast cancer survivor, she refused to play the role of the "patient." Her loving friends came to care for her and, often, were the recipients of care instead. With an unstoppable work ethic and abilities to crush a crossword, find a four leaf clover, and love and care deeply for others, she lives on in all of us. To say she will be missed is an extreme understatement. Services will be Friday, March 30 at 2 pm at the Roosevelt Cemetery, Roosevelt, NJ 08555 (at the end of Eleanor Lane). Reception will follow at 3 pm at the Roosevelt Public School, 2 School Lane. The mic will be open to share memories and thoughts. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Joan Dancy Foundation: https://ssl.charityweb.net/joandancyandpals/