Nancy Grisham, 85, passed away peacefully on March 19, 2026, at Paradigm of Bay City. She was preceded in death by her loving husband, James Grisham; her sisters, Louise Ann Johnson and Carolyn Sue Boden; and her parents, James and Bessie Boden.

Nancy was born in Okmulgee, Oklahoma and moved to the Old Ocean/Sweeny area as a young girl. She graduated from Sweeny High School and earned her college degree from the University of Houston at Victoria. She devoted much of her life to education as an elementary school teacher (26 years), sharing her love of math and art with countless students in the Bay City and Van Vleck schools. Her passion extended to theater, where she directed one-act plays and other productions at school and church, inspiring creativity and confidence in everyone she taught.

Nancy was an accomplished cook and baker, renowned for her hot rolls and cinnamon rolls, which became a beloved family tradition. She also enjoyed sewing, quilting, watercolor painting, and finding joy in creating beautiful things with her hands. She also enjoyed water aerobics where she formed many lasting friendships.

Family and friends were central to Nancy’s life. She is survived by her children, Melissa Lish (Mark) of Midlothian, Texas, Mark Grisham (Yolanda) of Bay City, Texas and Michael Grisham (Denise) of Van Vleck, Texas; her grandchildren, Courtney LaForte (Brent) of Huntsville, Alabama, Faith Odom (Zachary) of Borger, Texas, Stephanie Lish of Dallas, Texas, Monica Lish of Dallas, Texas, and Cole Grisham (Karlee) of Kingsville, Texas and her five great grandchildren; Adalyn Odom, Eden LaForte, Wesley Grisham, Garrett Odom and Easton LaForte. Nancy is also survived by her sister, Judy Mercill of Arlington, Virginia, and many nieces and nephews. Her circle of friends was large and cherished, including her high school friends known affectionately as “the naughty nine,” who gathered often to celebrate lifelong friendships.

Nancy’s life was defined by creativity, generosity, and a deep love for those around her. She touched the lives of many through her teaching, her art, her culinary talents, and her unwavering friendship. She will be fondly remembered and deeply missed by all who knew her.

The family will receive friends and relatives from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. Funeral service will be at 10:00 AM Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home with Rev. John Price officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck.

Nancy’s warmth, creativity, and generosity left a lasting mark on all who knew her, and she will be fondly remembered and deeply missed. 

In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made to the Van Vleck Education Foundation at:

VVISD Education Foundation, P.O. Box 377, Van Vleck, TX 77482.

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