Gloucester - It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Nancy Garland Wren, 72, of Gloucester, who passed away peacefully at home surrounded by loved ones after a long illness. Nancy is survived by her husband, Curtis Wren of Gloucester, with whom she spent 40 wonderful years of marriage with, and devoted son Ethan Wren of Ipswich, whom she considered her greatest blessing in life.

Nancy was born in West Gloucester on March 20, 1952. She was the daughter of the late Norman M. "Bub" Garland Jr. and Frances (Hinckley) Garland, sister to Marie Frazier and the late Judy Garland, as well as siblings Danny Conrad of Gloucester and Tammi Ducharme of Alabama. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews, as well as best friends Laurie and Jay Keefe of Gloucester.

Nancy was a 1971 graduate of Gloucester High School and went on to study early childhood development. She truly enjoyed working with young children and did so for most of her adult life. Her career path started at Rowley Children's Center in Rowley, then Head Start and Pathways for Children in Gloucester, and at the Tara Montessori School in Manchester-by-the-Sea. Nancy was a much beloved teacher, and a positive influence on scores of children. She truly brought out the best in every child that she worked with.

Nancy was a fun-loving, spirited person and an exceptional cook, who looked forward to sharing her culinary creations with the ones she loved. She was well known amongst family and friends for hosting lively gatherings, where visitors were treated to her homemade cheesecake and spinach dip, just to name a few of her delicious specialties. Nancy also enjoyed being in her garden, thoughtfully tending to her flowers and plants. Other passions included music and books,

Nancy's family wishes to thank the staff at Care Dimensions specifically nurses Sybil and Rachel, and aides Mae and Farrah, as well as the dedicated staff at Day by Day Adult Care, and Senior Care all of whom were vital to providing Nancy with compassionate care while keeping her spirits lifted.

Nancy will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Her funeral service will be at the Campbell Funeral Home, 61 Middle Street, Gloucester, on Tuesday, November 25th at 11 a.m. Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Visiting hours will be at the funeral home on Monday, November 24th from 5 to 7 p.m. Burial will be at Dolliver Memorial Cemetery, Gloucester. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Nancy's memory to the The Alzheimer's Foundation. Information, directions, condolences at www.campbellfuneral.com.