Nancy Handlin

Nancy Jean Handlin, 75, of Ashland and formerly of New Jersey, passed away Feb. 6 after a brief battle with cancer. Born in Ridgewood, New Jersey, she was the daughter of the late Helen (Chapman) and James Matthews. She was the wife of 54 years to the late Robert M. Handlin.

Nancy was proud of her nursing career. She was a giver. Her strength and ability to get through life’s challenges were to be admired. She loved her grandchildren, the Jersey Shore, her new home, friends and adventures in the Boston area. Her fondest memories are spending time with family and dear friends. She had a zest for life and considered herself a comedian.

Nancy is survived by her children, Corinne Hagerman and husband David of Hopkinton, Jennifer Delaney and husband Patrick of Minneapolis, Julie Begley and husband Patrick of Windham, New York, and Amanda Laughlin and husband Eric of Brick, New Jersey. She also leaves behind her brother, James “Buddy” Matthews and wife Betsy of Florida and Minnesota; nine grandchildren, Kyle, Sydney, Rory, Max, Maggie, McCoy, Shane, Graham and Myles; and her cousins, Teddy and Bitsy. She is predeceased by her sister, Joan VanPelt.

Nancy’s wit and sense of humor will be missed by all those who loved her. Funeral services will be held privately with family and are under the care of the Chesmore Funeral Home of Hopkinton. Nancy will be laid to rest alongside Bob at the Ocean County Memorial Park, Toms River, New Jersey. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105 or stjude.org.

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