Obituary of Nancy Burden Tapley

Nancy White Burden Tapley, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 24, 2025, in Darien, Connecticut, at the age of ninety-three.

She is survived by her husband, David Tapley; daughters Leigh (Jerry) Williamson of Hingham, MA, and Holly (Denny) Maroney of Darien, CT; and six grandchildren: Ben, Greg, Becca, Jill, Cassie, and Christopher.

Born in Springfield, Ohio, on April 22, 1932, Nancy was the only child of Clarence and Hazello Burden. She grew up in Larchmont, NY, and spent summers with her cousins at her beloved Gram White's cottage on Lake Erie. She graduated from Mamaroneck High School in 1950 and earned a Bachelor of Science in Home Economics from the University of Vermont in 1954, where she was a drum majorette and member of Pi Beta Phi.

Nancy began her career at Daniel Starch & Staff, an advertising and market research firm. In 1959, she married David Tapley and eventually settled in Darien, CT, where she raised her daughters and became deeply involved in the community. She was a member of Wee Burn Country Club, Noroton Yacht Club, and Noroton Presbyterian Church, and held leadership roles in organizations including UNICEF, United Way, Children's Aid, A Better Chance (ABC), and the University of Vermont Alumnae Council.

Later, Nancy lived in Stonington, CT, working as a successful realtor with Berkshire Hathaway, earning top regional awards. She remained active in the Stonington Garden Club, Friends of the Mystic Aquarium, and the Mystic Congregational Church.

Nancy will be remembered for her warmth, grace, and devotion to family and friends. Her smile lit up every room, and her charm and generosity left an impression on all who knew her.

The family will hold a private memorial service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Heart Association.