Obituary of Nancy B. Sanborn

HOWARD: Nancy B. Sanborn, 82, of Cty. Rte. 27 passed away Sunday (August 29, 2021) at Elderwood at Hornell where she had resided since 2017. Nancy Bea Sanborn, was born in Hyannis, Massachusetts on January 23, 1939. She was a full time military wife to her late husband, Greenough Sanborn who she married on May 12, 1962 and a mother of four to David, Debra, Corey, and Sarah. Before settling down in Howard, New York, she traveled alongside her husband which allowed her to see the world first hand. She played the organ for the Centenary United Methodist Church in Attleboro, Massachusetts where David got to turn her music sheets as she played. Because of her, her family will always hold on to special memories and tidbits that help them get through life with more smiles. Like eating holiday dessert first so there’s always room for the dessert, playing 52 Card Pick Up, and the importance of remembering to laugh. While creating memories with her family, she settled down in Howard, New York in 1994 where she became a full time grandmother. She helped raise a couple of her grandchildren, giving them a lifetime of memories to hold onto as well. They hold on to the memories of eating ramen and watching Dorf on Golf, feeding and watching the birds, spending the night and staying up super late on the weekends, and so many more. But as her family says goodbye it’s important to remember this little passage. When I am gone, release me, let me go. I have so many things to see and do, you mustn’t tie yourself to me with tears, be happy that we had so many years. I have you my love, you can only guess how much you gave me in happiness. I thank you for the love you have shown, but now it’s time I traveled on alone. So grieve a while for me, if grieve you must, then let your grief be comforted with trust. It’s only for a whole we must be apart so bless the memories that be within your heart. I won’t be far away, for life goes on, so if you need me, call and I will come. Though you can’t see or touch me, I’ll be near. And if you listen to your heart you’ll hear all of my love around you, soft and clear. And then when you must come this way alone, I’ll greet you with a smile and welcome you home. She is survived by two sons: David (Darla) Sanborn of Eddy, TX, Corey (Susie) Sanborn of Alfred Station, two daughters: Debra (Thomas) Watson of Howard and Sarah Sanborn (Edward Jeffries) of Chapel Hill, NC 8 Grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren and special friend Lane Baggett of Hornell. Per Nancy’s request there will be no calling hours or service. Burial will be at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are with the H.P. Smith & Son, Inc. Funeral Home in Canisteo.