Nancy Ellen Kane

Nancy D. Kane, born December 13, 1933, in Bangor, Maine, entered into eternal rest on June 12, 2026, at the age of 92, surrounded by God's love and grace. Although born and raised in Bangor, Maine, Nancy spent most of her life in Visalia, California. Nancy was preceded in death by her sons, Francis and Mark. She is lovingly remembered by her sons, David, Thomas, and John Kane and his wife, Kelly, as well as her beloved grandchildren, Benjamin and Finley. She will also be deeply missed by many dear friends who were blessed by her friendship, wisdom, and spiritual guidance. Nancy lived her years with grace, determination, and a steadfast Catholic faith. She treasured her independence and remained in her own home until the very end. Yet what made Nancy truly special was her generous heart and deep commitment to serving others. Nancy's Catholic faith was the foundation of her life. A devoted parishioner of St. Mary's Catholic Church, she dedicated countless hours to serving God and others through many ministries. She taught Confirmation classes, coordinated Renew 2000, and welcomed parishioners as a greeter long before an official greeter ministry existed. Nancy also served as Communication Director for the Serra Club of Tulare-Kings, where for more than 15 years she helped support seminarians on their journey to the priesthood by mailing monthly cards and stipends and staying in contact with them through spiritual encouragement and updates on Serra Club activities. Perhaps Nancy's most meaningful ministry was as the original coordinator of the parish Prayer Warriors. Long before computers, email, or text messages, her name and phone number appeared in the church bulletin as the person to call when prayers were needed. Whether she knew the individual or not, she faithfully organized a prayer chain, ensuring that those facing illness, loss, or difficult times were lifted up in prayer. Beginning in 2020, when churches were closed during the COVID pandemic, Nancy helped organize a group of devoted Catholics who gathered on the corner of Garden and Race Streets in front of St. Mary's Church to pray the Rosary publicly for the Church, the community, and those in need. What began during a difficult time became a lasting ministry of faith and fellowship that continues to this day. Through heat, cold, and rain, the group has remained steadfast in prayer, faithfully gathering on that same corner as a quiet but powerful witness to their devotion. Nancy's faith was not limited to prayer-it was reflected in the way she cared for others every day. She had a special love for children and families and spent many years working at the College of the Sequoias Child Care Center. Throughout her life, she was always ready to help families who needed assistance with their children, offering her time, patience, and loving support whenever it was needed. Her generosity, compassion, and willingness to serve touched countless lives and left a lasting legacy of faith, prayer, and love. In honor of Nancy's vibrant spirit and love of color, the family kindly invites those attending to wear bright, cheerful colors. Nancy was never fond of black attire and would much rather see a gathering filled with the colors and joy that she brought to the lives of others. Nancy's family takes comfort in knowing that she has entered into the eternal embrace of her Lord and has been reunited with loved ones who have gone before her. Her legacy of faith, prayer, service, and love will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her. May Nancy now rest in the eternal peace of her Lord, whom she served so faithfully throughout her life. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Nancy's memory to St. Anthony Retreat Center. Please note "Scholarship Fund" in the memo line and mail donations to P.O. Box 249, Three Rivers, CA 93271. St. Anthony Retreat Center was a place of deep meaning for Nancy, where she spent many beautiful and meaningful moments of spiritual growth, prayer, and reflection A Rosary will be held at Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel on Friday, July 17, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. A Funeral Mass celebrating Nancy's life will be held at St. Mary's Catholic Church on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at 9:00 a.m., followed by burial at Visalia Cemetery at 10:30 a.m. A reception will immediately follow at St. Mary's Parish Hall. Services have been entrusted to Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel. Memorial Tributes and condolences may be offered by logging onto www.salseranddillard.com.

Nancy Ellen Kane

December 13, 1933 - June 12, 2026