Nancy Ann Berry 1936-2025

Nancy Berry Obituary

A shining force in the LGBTQ+ community of Albuquerque, Nancy Berry (1936–2025) was a beloved queer trailblazer, Lesbian community leader, and fierce advocate in the story of women’s rights history in New Mexico. As one of the first women to win an EEOC case in the state, her legacy transformed workplaces across the country. Nancy was more than a professional powerhouse—she was a mentor, a friend, and a radiant LGBTQ+ elder who built chosen family wherever she went. Her celebration of life in Albuquerque will take place on August 8 at First Unitarian Church, where all are welcome to honor her memory and the love she gave so freely.

On the Fourth of July, 2025, Nancy Berry left this world with quiet power and luminous grace. Born in a small Texas town on December 16, 1936, Nancy’s life was anything but small. She moved to New Mexico and made it home for over 66 years—building a life filled with purpose, community, and bold-hearted love.

After losing her father to tuberculosis and watching her mother step into wartime work for the future CIA, Nancy entered boarding school at age seven. There, she developed the warmth, strength, and impeccable social grace she carried throughout her life. By 14, she was not only managing a household and raising her brothers—she was also captain of her swim team, a lifeguard, and a young woman already known for her brilliance and poise.

Professionally, she smashed ceilings. After being denied a claims adjuster promotion—handed instead to a young male basketball star—Nancy fought back. Her courage became one of New Mexico’s first Equal Employment Opportunity Commission victories for women. While she didn’t receive a settlement, the ruling forced a national insurance company to hire 5,000 women across the U.S.

That fight opened a new chapter. Nancy joined Allstate Insurance, where she excelled as a claims adjuster and advocate. She was known for her loyalty to clients—especially elders and women—and for lifting up honest local mechanics and car lots, helping many build thriving businesses through her referrals. She won Allstate’s President’s Customer Service Award twice, and her team became like family.

And oh, if you ever heard the words:
“Hello—I’m Nancy Berry. Pleased to meet you.”
You were in for something wonderful.

Nancy was a force of connection, humor, and deep compassion. She told stories that made you laugh till you cried, shared memories that softened even the toughest hearts, and built queer community with fierce, joyful love. She was a mentor, a rascal, a cheerleader, and a warm fire on a cold day.

Nancy is survived by her two brothers, and one sister and their families; and  the wide, beautiful constellation of her chosen LGBTQ+ family. Special thanks to Jann Pierce, who gave 25 years of loving care and companionship to Nancy’s journey.

A wild, warm, open-hearted Celebration of Nancy’s Life
Friday, August 8, 2025 · 3:00 p.m.
First Unitarian Church on Carlisle in Albuquerque

Bring your best Nancy stories, your loudest laugh, and a heart wide open.

To share memories or connect: nancyberry252@gmail.com
To plant trees in her honor: Sympathy Store 🌱