Nancy May (Carroll) Hickey

Nancy Carroll Hickey passed away peacefully in her sleep on January 20, 2026, at the age of 85.

Nancy was born on January 29, 1940, at Quincy City Hospital in Massachusetts, to Richard and Eleanor (Poulos) Carroll. Alongside her siblings, Elaine and Richard Jr., Nancy experienced a challenging childhood, but she often reflected on it later in life with pride and resilience, saying simply, “We made it!”

Nancy pursued her calling in nursing, graduating from Boston City Hospital Nursing School and beginning her career there as a Registered Nurse. Her dedication to patient care and professionalism defined her work throughout her life. After marrying the love of her life, Jim Hickey, with whom she shared 60 devoted years, Nancy’s life took her across the country—from the Boston area to Reno, Nevada, Tampa Bay, Florida, and ultimately back home to the South Shore of Boston. While living in Reno, Nancy served as a cardiac care nurse at Washoe Medical Center and Saint Mary’s Hospital, where she earned the deep respect of her colleagues for her clinical expertise, compassion, and unwavering commitment to her patients.

Above all else, Nancy was a devoted wife and a loving presence within her family. She was a cherished stepmother to Jim Jr., Gayle, Maureen, and Scott, and a beloved aunt to her five nieces and nephews—Farrell, Kimberly, Sam, Rachel, and Sarah—who adored her. She also leaves behind dozens of cousins and countless friends whose lives were touched by her kindness, humor, and steady strength. Nancy will be missed profoundly by her sister and best friend, Elaine Duckett, whose bond with her was lifelong and unbreakable.

Nancy’s life was marked by perseverance, love, and service to others. She leaves behind a legacy of compassion and quiet strength that will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Services were private.

A public Memorial Service will be held at a later date this coming spring at Quincy Point Congregational Church.