Nancy Ridley

Nancy Ridley, 67, of Fayetteville passed away July 6, 2019. Born July 24, 1951, in Buffalo, the daughter of Dr. Mario P. and Dorothy E. Pestillo. As a child growing up, Nancy enjoyed swimming, golf, snow skiing, and going on vacations with her family. Traveling to Canada, ocean beaches, and taking a Caribbean cruise. Nancy and her mom could often be found working on the flower garden at their home. A Lifetime resident of Syracuse, Nancy attended Nottingham H.S., Syracuse University, and Upstate Medical Center where she graduated with a B.S. in Medical Technology.

Nancy met her husband Peter while both were attending Syracuse University while on a ski trip. Peter graduated and served in the US Navy on a ship that deployed to Vietnam. Upon his return they were married in 1973.

An avid Syracuse basketball fan and proud season ticket holder she and Peter enjoyed trips to the dome for games throughout their lives together.

Nancy exposed her two children Vincent and Barbara to a variety of activities. Swimming and scouting seemed to be the best fits. Nancy was active as a Girl Scout troop leader and volunteer, receiving a recognition award in 2004. Her involvement in her children's swimming led to her becoming a devoted swimming and diving official, officiating modified and high school meets for over 25 years.

Nancy's hobbies at home included latch hook and needle point, reading, puzzles and cross word. Nancy was the best at helping to paint having the patience and steady hand to do trim and tight corners. She enjoyed the bowling and golf leagues she participated in over the years. She enjoyed plants and flowers, making annual trips to the markets in the spring for her annuals. She never let her seasonal allergies stop her from working in the planters and garden. On occasion her sneezing fits would last for minutes and could be heard from far away.

Nancy enjoyed visiting the zoos and loved experiencing the animals with her grandchildren whenever they visited.

Predeceased by her parents Dr. Mario P. Pestillo and Dorothy E. Pestillo. Nancy is survived by her husband Peter, son Vincent (Kari), daughter Barbara (Tom) Pierson, and three grandchildren Owen, Isabella, and Chloe. Several aunts and cousins, and her two rescue cats sweet pea and Mack.

Calling hours will be held on Friday July 12 from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. followed by a service at Burns-Garfield Funeral Home. 3175 East Genesee St. Syracuse
In lieu of flowers donations in Nancy's memory may be made to the Community Library of Dewitt & Jamesville.