Nancy Elizabeth Watson Coy

Obituary for Nancy Elizabeth Watson Coy

Nancy Elizabeth Watson Coy, age 89, of Huntsville, Alabama, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday morning, March 19, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

Nancy was born on February 11, 1937, at Episcopal Hospital in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to Earl Frederick Watson and Margaret Rees Watson. She was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. William A. Coy, an oral surgeon in private practice in Hartford, Connecticut, who passed away in 1970; her sister, Linda Watson; and her husband’s parents, Dr. Harry Coy and Ruth Coy.

Nancy is survived by her daughter, Leslie Gramke and her husband Keith Gramke of Priceville, Alabama; her son, Jeffrey Coy and his wife Kristen Coy of Huntsville, Alabama; and her beloved grandchildren, Margaret Gramke, Evan Coy and his wife Shannon, and Preston Coy. She is also survived by her brother, Dr. David Watson and his wife Sarah Watson, along with their children, Jennifer and Michael, as well as extended family including the Klein family and many cherished friends.

Nancy dedicated over 50 years of her life to nursing, beginning her education at the Presbyterian Hospital School of Nursing. Her career as a registered nurse was marked by compassion, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to caring for others. She raised her family in West Hartford, Connecticut, and later moved to Madison, Alabama in 2005, where she built lasting friendships through the Huntsville Newcomers Association, her neighborhood, and her local gym community.

Nancy was a devoted member of Asylum Hill Congregational Church in Hartford, Connecticut, for over 30 years. She was deeply involved in the church community and especially cherished her participation in the beloved Boar’s Head Festival, where she formed lasting friendships and contributed her time and spirit.

A woman of remarkable strength and resilience, Nancy raised two young children on her own after the loss of her husband, all while working multiple jobs and caring for her sister with a disability. Her life was a testament to perseverance, faith, and unconditional love.

Nancy had a vibrant spirit and remained active well into her later years. Until just six months ago, she could still be found working out regularly at the gym. Her strength and determination inspired many, including her son’s youth rowing team girls squad, whose “Strong Women” cheer is dedicated in her honor.

Nancy was also known for her many personal talents and passions. She was a fabulous cook and baker who loved entertaining family and friends. She had a wonderful sense of style, expressed not only through her fashion but also in the way she beautifully decorated her home, especially during the holidays. Her warmth and attention to detail made every gathering special.

Those who knew Nancy will remember her for her warm smile, compassionate heart, and genuine love for family and friends. She lived her life as an example of how to love, serve, and care deeply for others, leaving a lasting legacy in everyone she touched. Her family takes comfort in knowing she has gone home to Heaven to be with Jesus.

A memorial service and celebration of life for Nancy will be held at a future date, with details to be announced.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Nancy’s memory to a cause close to her heart—pet care and adoption. Nancy lovingly rescued three dogs through:

The Hope Fund at Family Pet Health Care
3623 Indian Hills Road
Decatur, AL 35603
(256) 341-0200
Donations may be made by mail or by phone. Please reference Nancy Coy and include your name or family name if desired.