Nancy E. (Ansbigian) Naroian, a beloved figure in her community and at Anna Maria College, passed away on September 23, 2025, at the age of 81.
Her death has left a void in the hearts of many who knew her as a devoted wife, family member, church volunteer, and steadfast supporter of college athletics.
Nancy’s life was marked by quiet strength, endless compassion, and a commitment to those around her that touched the lives of countless people.
Born on August 23, 1944, in Worcester, Massachusetts, Nancy was the daughter of the late Harry and Nina (Belezarian) Ansbigian.
She grew up in the area, graduating from North High School and attending Worcester Junior College.
From a young age, Nancy was deeply involved in her faith community.
She was a lifelong member of the Armenian Church of Our Saviour in Worcester, where she served as a Sunday school teacher and participated in the Armenian Church Youth Organization of America (ACYOA) during her youth.
Her connection to the church remained a cornerstone of her life, providing her with a sense of purpose and a place to give back.
Nancy’s professional career was centered at Anna Maria College in Paxton, where she worked in the Athletic Department for over 24 years before retiring on May 23, 2008.
As the department secretary, she supported three different athletic directors, whom she came to view as family.
Her role went far beyond administrative tasks; she was the welcoming face of the department, greeting visitors with a warm smile and offering support to coaches, staff, and student-athletes alike.
Nancy was often described as the “backbone” of the athletic department, handling everything from implementing policies and promoting games to washing uniforms and counseling students.
She embodied the college’s mission through her selfless service, always going the extra mile to make others feel valued and supported.
Her contributions were recognized in 2020 when she was inducted into the Anna Maria College Athletics Hall of Fame.
The induction highlighted her as an “unsung hero” who helped build the foundation for the department’s growth and success.
Nancy was a true AMCAT fan, cheering “Go Blue!” from the sidelines at games and treating student-athletes like her own children.
Even after retirement, her impact lingered; the college established the Nancy Naroian Award to honor student-athletes for their behind-the-scenes contributions, much like hers.
In March 2023, she was celebrated alongside other Hall of Fame alumni at an event attended by over 80 friends and family members.
Nancy was an avid New England Sports Enthusiast, Rooting Passionately for the Boston Red Sox and New England Patriots
But her greatest joy came from her family, which she cherished above all else. She shared 57 years of marriage with her loving husband, Peter H. Naroian.
Nancy was predeceased by her precious sons, Matthew in 1988 and Jonathan in 1995, losses that she carried with grace but never fully healed from.
She leaves behind her brother, David Ansbigian, and his wife, Mary of Jefferson; her nephews, Brian Ansbigian and former Marine Captain Darren Ansbigian and his wife, Major Shelley Ansbigian of the USMC; a great-niece, Sanya Rose Ansbigian; her dear friend Susanne Avakian; and many cherished cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.
To say everyone loved Nancy is an understatement. She had a gift for listening to anyone who needed an ear and always strived to bring joy and happiness to those she met.
Upon hearing the news of her passing, heartfelt condolences poured in from former colleagues, students, and friends.
George Mitre shared,
“She was a wonderful person. I always enjoyed speaking to her at the gym!! Condolences to her entire family. May her memory be eternal.”
Holly McHale remembered her fondly, saying,
“Oh she was like my second Mom at college… heaven gained an amazing angel.”
Caitlyn Murdock added,
“My condolences to her family. I loved stopping in to say hi to Nancy on my way through the gym. She was a wonderful lady.”
Anna Maria College Athletics also mourned her loss publicly, stating,
Family and friends are invited to honor Nancy’s memory at calling hours on Friday, September 26, 2025, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the Armenian Church of Our Saviour, located at 87 Salisbury Street in Worcester.
A funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM in the church, followed by burial at Hope Cemetery in Worcester.
Instead of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Armenian Church of Our Saviour at the same address.
Nancy Naroian’s death marks the end of a life filled with quiet acts of kindness that made the world brighter for so many.
Her legacy of love, service, and unwavering support will continue to inspire those who knew her. May her memory be eternal.
