Nancy Elizabeth Winegar

The family of Nancy Elizabeth Winegar regretfully announce her passing on July 12th 2026, at Miramichi Lodge in Pembroke, Ontario. 

Living her life with infectious optimism, laughter, and joy, Nancy/Nance/Mom/Nana is loved and remembered by her cherished family and friends. She is survived by her immediate family – her partner of almost 50 years, Neil Smith, her daughters Barb Stephens (Doug) and Karen Winegar (Jamie), and her grandsons Aidan, Jason, and Dylan Buyers and Jack and Charlie Stephens. She was also stepmother to Duncan (Sheau-Ling), Maureen, Warren (Jen), and Elaine (RIP) (Ted), and step-nana to Hazel, Stephanie, Danielle, Nicole, Sarah, Sophie, Alex, Jon, Hannah and Chloe. She also leaves behind her much-loved extended Jones-clan family – a group with whom she shared many reunions and get-togethers, celebrations and passings, sing-alongs and notoriously long, laughter-filled goodbyes. 

Nancy was born in Lorne Park, Toronto in 1944, moving to Deep River in 1966 – her beloved home in the valley for over 60 years. She was musical from an early age, a gift from her Welsh heritage and music-loving lineage. She sang with Toronto’s Mendelssohn Choir in her teen years and on stage in her early Deep River days. Active with the Deep River Players for many years, she was an award-winning actress, and a producer and stage manager of choice. 

Nancy’s work and community involvement – as a bank teller, dental assistant to Dr. Beauprie, owner/operator of Settlers Inn B&B with Neil, working and volunteerism at the hospital, Summerfest, and various community organizations – left very few Deep River’ites untouched by her sparkle and generosity. She was also an avid traveller, and prioritized giving back to the places she travelled, including volunteering for many years to support Mexican families and children.

Amid all life's ups and downs, Nancy always kept family and friends at the top of her list. She is remembered for her smile, chat, laughter, and authenticity.  Most of all, we’ll remember what it feels like to have been touched by her presence and positivity.  

Nancy’s family offers their heartfelt thanks to the staff at Miramichi Lodge for their care and support to her over the last three years – everyone working and living in 3A helped make the lodge feel like home.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, August 1 at 11:00 am in the Deep River Community Church.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the North Renfrew Family Services would be gratefully appreciated.

Funeral arrangements entrusted to the Valley Funeral Home, Deep River.

To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Nancy Elizabeth Winegar, please visit our Tree Store.