Nancy Irene Gagne, 80, passed away peacefully with her family by her side on October 16, 2026. She leaves behind a lifetime of beautiful memories and a family who will miss her more than words can say.

Born in Methuen, MA, and raised in Salem, NH, Nancy was a truly beautiful person, inside and out. She had the kindest heart, always thought of others before herself, and found her greatest happiness in the people she loved. She shared 28 years of marriage with her beloved husband, Robert Gagne, whom she met at an A&W root beer stand after he took a liking to her car. Together, they built a life in Derry, New Hampshire, raising their four children and filling their home with love and memories.

Nancy spent much of her life working as a nurse, caring for others with the same kindness and compassion she showed her family.

More than anything, Nancy loved being a mom and Nana. Her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were her whole world. She was always there, cheering from the sidelines, celebrating life’s special moments, and making even the simplest days memorable. No matter how old her grandchildren grew, she never stopped being their biggest supporter. Being Nana was one of her greatest joys, and she gave that role her whole heart.

Nancy loved the ocean, lighthouses, collecting seashells, and enjoying saltwater taffy at the beach. She loved crafting and sewing blankets and clothes for her grandchildren, always finding little ways to make something special for someone she loved. She was also a die-hard Dallas Cowboys fan, cheering them on through every touchdown, tough loss, and season of saying, “This is our year!” Win or lose, she never gave up on her Cowboys—even when they gave her plenty of reasons to! It was these thoughtful gestures, little joys, and countless everyday moments spent together that made her so unforgettable.

Nancy is survived by her children, Lori Douglas and her husband, Gordon; Michelle Casey; Robert Gagne Jr. and his wife, Rachel; and Brian Gagne and his wife, Jen. She also leaves behind her nine grandchildren: Amanda Small and her husband, Anthony; Nicole Baker and her husband, Eddie; Robert Douglas; Justin; Alicia; Lydia; Helena; Arabella; and Preston; and her seven great-grandchildren: Hailey, Tyler, Kenzi, Sofia, Logan, Izabella, and Madilynne.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Robert Gagne; her parents, Rita and Al Gaudette; and her brother, Robert Gaudette.

Nancy was the heart of her family, the one who was always there, always giving, and always loving. Her family will forever be grateful for the gift of having her in their lives and for the memories they will carry with them always.

Whenever the ocean waves roll in, a seashell is found, or a lighthouse shines along the shore, her family will be reminded of their Nana. Her love was as endless as the ocean she adored, and her light will continue to guide them forever.

The Graveside service will be Friday, October 23rd at Forest Hill Cemetery at 1:00PM. Please arrive by 12:45PM.

Arrangements are under the care of Douglas & Johnson Funeral Home, 214 Main St. Salem, NH.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Nancy’s name may be sent to: American Heart Association, PO Box 840692 Dallas, TX 75284or to the Alzheimer’s Association, P.O. Box 96011 Washington, DC 20090-6011

To send a message of condolence to the family, please view the obituary at www.douglasandjohnson.com