Nancy Greenwood Wettlaufer

Nancy Gage Greenwood Wettlaufer, 86, passed away peacefully on November 18, 2025, after a long illness. Born on June 6, 1939, in Springfield, Massachusetts, she lived a life marked by intelligence, creativity, and deep connections with the many friends and family she cherished.

Her professional life was diverse and rich. Nancy graduated from Wellesley College and went on to earn a graduate degree from Yale University. She began her career as a language teacher, later spending more than a decade as a potter alongside her husband, George, during their years in Skaneateles. She authored four books and numerous articles about pottery. Nancy eventually returned to the corporate world, working at Syracuse University and General Electric, where she was respected for her sharp mind and thoughtful approach.

Throughout her life, Nancy built lasting friendships wherever she lived. She remained close with friends from her childhood in Longmeadow, Massachusetts, formed deep bonds during her college years, and treasured her community in Skaneateles. After retiring, she and George spent 30 years in Florida, where she continued to cultivate friendships old and new. Recently they lived in the home of their daughter and son-in-law in New York, surrounded by family and warmth.

Nancy loved art and music, passions that stayed with her throughout all chapters of her life. Stories abound about her carting her upright bass all around town. She also loved animals and found joy in the simple pleasure of time spent with Inge’s dogs, Gracie and Rosie. Some of her happiest moments were when her grandchildren visited her in Florida, filling her home with laughter and energy.

Nancy is survived by her devoted husband, George Wettlaufer; her brother James Greenwood Jr. (Linda); her children, Inge O’Connor (Kieran) and Kurt Wettlaufer; as well as her beloved grandchildren Emily, Matthew, Megan, Nancy, Gage, and Alice.

She will be remembered with love for her intelligence, creativity, warmth, and the deep and enduring friendships she carried with her throughout her life.

The family would like to thank all the incredible caregivers who helped Nancy through the end stages of her life. Your invaluable presence made Nancy comfortable and cared for.

A celebration of Nancy’s life will be held at a future date, with details to be shared when available. In lieu of flowers, kindly consider donating to a charity of your choice in her memory.