Nancy Knapp Roy, 88, passed away peacefully on May 22, 2025 at the home of Julie and Paul McMurtrie, her long-term caregivers, in Millersville, PA. Born on December 10, 1936 in Pittsburgh, PA, she was the daughter of the late Elwood and Evelyn Knapp of Pittsburgh, PA, and sister of Richard E. Knapp of Sewickley, PA. Nancy was also the loving and devoted wife to the late David B. Roy for more than 62 years.
Upon graduating from Perry High School in 1954, Nancy attended Allegheny College where she earned a degree in Elementary Education. She taught 2nd grade for three years before becoming a stay-at-home mom to raise her three children. Nancy later reentered the workforce in a variety of capacities. She enjoyed several years of working as a tour guide at Mill Bridge Village, serving as a nursery school teacher at First Presbyterian Church, and assisting in a diagnostic kindergarten class at Lafayette Elementary School.
Nancy was a faithful believer of Christ and a long-time member of First Presbyterian Church of Lancaster and Highland Presbyterian Church. For many years, she also attended The Church of the Apostles. She was very generous with her time and had a passion for serving in several organizations. Nancy was a dedicated volunteer for Meals on Wheels and was a faithful member of various P.E.O. (Philanthropic Educational Organization) chapters for more than 48 years.
Nancy was a loyal friend who was intentional in maintaining both high school and college friendships. She found great joy in spending time with her six grandchildren. Nancy also cared for many dogs and rabbits throughout her life.
Nancy will be remembered by many for her radiant smile, kindness, patience, and great sense of humor. She was the epitome of compassion, accepting of all, and was an eternal optimist who found the good in every person and situation.
Nancy was blessed with a devoted family of three children and six grandchildren. She is survived by her daughter Dana Roy Myers (John); her son Scott David Roy (Teresa) and her daughter Julie Roy McMurtrie (Paul). Her legacy also includes six grandchildren: Nolan and Claire Myers; Colleen, Shannen and David Roy; and Meghan McMurtrie.
The families would like to offer their heartfelt gratitude to Magnolias of Lancaster and Grane Hospice for their kindness and care for our mother.
A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, June 7th at 11:00 am at The Church of the Apostles located at 1850 Marietta Avenue, Lancaster, PA 17603. Visitation with the family will be from 10:00-11:00 am before the service. Please join with family and friends for a light luncheon immediately following the service.
In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes you to make contributions in Nancy's memory to the Alzheimer’s Association or an Animal Rescue of your choice.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Nancy K. Roy, please visit our flower store.Church of the Apostles UCC
Church of the Apostles UCC
Visits: 395
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the
Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Service map data © OpenStreetMap contributors