Nancy Otis Porter

Nancy Otis Porter, 68, passed away peacefully from cancer on Monday June 27, 2016 surrounded by her family. Nancy was born in 1948 in Manchester, New Hampshire, the daughter of the late Edith Fulde and Gordon M. Otis. The family moved to Lancaster in 1952. Nancy was a graduate of Lancaster Country Day School, Centenary College and the University of Denver. After college graduation, Nancy worked at the Home for Little Wanderers in Boston, Massachusetts. In 1972, she married Frederick U. “Fritz” Porter of Essex, Connecticut at First Presbyterian Church in Lancaster. For many years Nancy was a lower school teacher, substitute teacher and volunteer at Lancaster Country Day School. Nancy was a dedicated wife and mother. She was best known for her consistent optimism and care for family and friends. She always offered an ear to listen, a shoulder to cry on and an encouraging voice. Her infectious enthusiasm lifted many spirits for a long time. Nancy’s late twin brother, Gordie, introduced her to Martha’s Vineyard which became a passion for the rest of her life. The natural beauty of the island attracted her. She and her family enjoyed many summers at their home “We Did It” with a warm community of friends and loved ones. Nancy was a member of First Presbyterian Church Lancaster where she served as a Deacon. She also served on the board of the Historic Preservation Trust of Lancaster as events chair. She was preceded in death by her brother Gordon M. Otis, Jr. She is survived by her husband Fritz; her son Fritz and his wife Mary Margaret of Charlotte, North Carolina, and their sons Hill and Mason; her son Colin and his wife Elizabeth of Boston, Massachusetts, and their son Colin. She is also survived by a sister, Priscilla “Pril” Scudder of Annapolis, Maryland and many beloved nieces and nephews. A Memorial Service to celebrate Nancy’s life will be held on Wednesday, July 6, 2016, at First Presbyterian Church, 140 East Orange Street, Lancaster, PA 17603 at 11:00 a.m. A reception will follow the service to greet the family. The family will also receive friends on Tuesday, July 5, 2016 at The Groffs Family Funeral & Cremation Services, Inc., 528 West Orange Street, (corner of W. Orange & Pine Sts.), Lancaster, PA 17603 from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. Burial will be private at the family’s request. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Nancy’s memory to the Historic Preservation Trust, 131 North Prince Street, Lancaster, PA 17603 or First Presbyterian Church of Lancaster.