Nancy Grogan, majestic rose of the family
Ann Josephine Grogan of Lewes, known affectionately as Nancy, nee Plunkett, was surrounded by her family and passed over into the loving arms of the heavenly angels Monday, Feb. 24, 2014.
Nancy, 83, was born in Killeigh, Tullamore, County Offaly, Ireland, daughter of the late Patrick and Julia (nee Corcoran) Plunkett. Her four surviving siblings, Dennis Plunkett, James Plunkett, Sheila Maher, Mary Condron, the related extended families, and friends continue to reside in Ireland.
After a 1956 nursing school graduation in England, her search for employment led her to the hospitals in the United States where she met her husband and married in 1958. She lived and worked in New York from 1957-95. Her devoted husband of 56 years, Joseph M. Grogan, survives her.
She was an accomplished registered professional nurse for many years and a successful business owner. Many Professional Placement Nursing Agency employees still fondly remember her. Nancy, a devoted Roman Catholic, was a member of the St. William the Abbot R.C. Church, Seaford, N.Y., for many years, and more recently, a faithful parishioner of St. Jude the Apostle Church, Lewes. Her family and friends were her passion, and she took great delight in every milestone and celebration.
She will be sadly missed by her enduring children: eldest son Joseph P. Grogan and his wife Tina; eldest daughter Deirdre Grogan and fiancé Jeff Smith; daughter Joanne Grogan and fiancé Lloyd Harlow; and son Thomas Grogan and his wife Michele. She leaves behind 12 grandchildren; and a great-grandson. She was greatly admired, incredibly strong, tender hearted, and lovely as the majestic rose that climbs its trellis. Her vibrant personality, acts of kindness, and her descendants will be her legacy.
The wake will be held Friday, Feb. 28, from 4 to 9 p.m. at the chapel of Short Funeral Services, 416 Federal St., Milton. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow Saturday, March 1, at 11 a.m. at St. Jude the Apostle Catholic Church, 152 Tulip Drive, Lewes.
In lieu of flowers, prayers and donations are suggested to be made in Nancy’s honor to the folllowing: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis TN 38105-3678, 901-595-3300, www.stjude.org, or Delaware Hospice, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963, 855-DHI-GIVE, www.delawarehospice.org.
