MADISON - Nancy Ellen Stephens (72) passed away at Nazareth Health and Rehabilitation Center in Stoughton, Wis., on November 21, 2025.

She was born to Delores Eileen (Schroeder) Stephens and William Wesley Stephens Jr. and was raised in Madison, Wis. Nancy graduated from La Follette High School in 1971 and later attended MATC where she got her LPN degree. She worked in several medical clinics in the Madison area and always had a strong passion for caretaking. This was evident by the love and devotion she displayed when caring for both of her parents at the end of their lives.

Nancy was preceded in death by her mother, father, and brother, William Stephens. She is survived by her brother, Scott Stephens; her nieces and nephews, Andy Stephens, Sarah Shaughnessy, Molly Rogers, Ellie Stephens and Eli Stephens; as well as many beloved cousins and great-nieces/nephews.

She was a guiding light to all who knew her - cherished deeply, loved endlessly, and admired for the way she cared so selflessly for others. Nancy touched every life around her with grace and kindness, leaving behind a legacy of compassion that will live on in all of us. Though our hearts ache, we take solace in knowing her beautiful soul is at peace. We will forever hold her close in our hearts and memories.

Nancy was diagnosed with Stage IV pancreatic cancer on September 26, 2025. It is a devastating disease with a low 5-year survival rate and research is being done to develop earlier detection methods and effective targeted treatments. November is Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month and donations to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (pancan.org) are greatly appreciated and can be dedicated in Nancy’s honor.

Her immediate family will be planning a Celebration of Life in Wisconsin for both Nancy and her mother, Delores, in Spring/Summer of 2026. Invitations and details will be sent once planning is under way.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson Fitchburg

Funeral & Cremation Care

2950 Chapel Valley Road

(608) 442-5002

Nancy E Stephens

January 20, 1953 - November 21, 2025

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