Nancy C. (Grierson) Derby

TOWNSEND - Nancy C. (Grierson) Derby, 78, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family, on Sunday, August 23, 2026.

Born in Waltham and raised in Maynard, Nancy was the daughter of the late William and Barbara (Davis) Grierson. She attended Maynard Public Schools and was a graduate of Maynard High School, Class of 1965. Following graduation, Nancy continued her education at Boston University, where she earned an associate degree in Office Administration.

Nancy began her professional career in 1975 as an executive assistant with Digital Equipment Corporation. She later transitioned her career to the sales industry, where she dedicated many years to PUMA and Ryka, serving as executive assistant to the Vice President of Research and Development. Throughout her career, Nancy was known for her dedication, professionalism, and strong work ethic.

In 1977, Nancy met Brian C. Derby. The two began dating and were married in 1981, eventually settling in Groton, where they built their life and raised their family. Nancy cherished her role as a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, and her family was always at the heart of her life.

Nancy had a deep appreciation for adventure and the things that brought her joy. She loved horseback riding and had a lifelong passion for cars, especially Ford Shelby Mustangs, as well as Harley-Davidson motorcycles. She looked forward each year to traveling out West to Sturgis, South Dakota, where she enjoyed exploring the surrounding region and taking in everything the journey had to offer. Nancy also had a love for photography, concerts, and live music.

Some of her most treasured memories were made on Martha's Vineyard, where she spent time with the Derby family and shared a special connection to the Martha's Vineyard Wampanoag Tribe in Aquinnah. Whether traveling across the country, enjoying a concert, riding horses, or simply gathering together, Nancy found the greatest happiness in making memories with the people she loved. Above all, she treasured spending time with her family and friends, who were the most important part of her life.

Nancy is survived by her beloved children, James R. Boardman of Fitchburg, Timothy B. Derby and his wife, Rachael, of Groton, VT, and Barbara Cardarelli and her husband, Frank, of West Boylston; her cherished grandchildren, Michael Boardman and his wife, Ashley, Luke Stelmach, and Alice Derby; her great-grandchildren, Addison and Lexi Boardman; and her brother, William R. Grierson and his wife, Christine, of Illinois.

In addition to her parents and beloved husband, Brian, Nancy was predeceased by her grandsons, Conor Stelmach and Wyatt Guptill.

In accordance with Nancy's wishes, all services will be held privately.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Nancy's name to the Aquinnah Cultural Center, 10 Black Brook Road, Aquinnah, MA 02535.