HFFI’s Board – as well as many others in Fredericksburg’s non-profit world – were stunned and deeply saddened by the passing last month of our 2019 Volunteer of the Year, Nancy Hardin Gasparovic.  She was the embodiment of the “volunteer” concept and an ardent supporter of HFFI along with many other local organizations.  

Nancy had moved here five years ago from Southern Maryland where, we now know, she also preached the idea of ‘support your community organizations’.

Of her many interests beyond our orbit, the arts – especially music and theater – were her love.  She was particularly active in the ArtsAlive group but also gave full support to the Riverside Center for the Performing Arts by housing many of the out-of-town equity actors appearing in their shows.  Most prominent, of course, was Sally Struthers.  Everyone enjoyed “Nancy G’s” hospitality and lively personality.  She didn’t just loan her house to cast members, though.  She also permitted extensive use of her riverfront back yard as the site of magnificent fundraisers, particularly for the Friends of Chatham, who could relax at Nancy’s and gaze up at the magnificent edifice the group supports.

HFFI had use of her house, as well.  During her riverfront tenure, she allowed us to use her property for the Spring House Tour.  Speaking of tours, she was extremely active in planning committees for our holiday Candlelight Tour.  Living first by the river, she recently had moved and refurbished a property a half-block from the Lewis Store, so she was readily available to show up and help with a variety of activities.

While all of us in Fredericksburg hogged her energy, Nancy continued to travel, particularly to visit family, especially grandchildren, on both coasts.  Even from afar, she continued to remain tied to her new ‘hometown’ here on the Rappahannock.

Her sudden passing midst of the conundrum of pandemic restrictions has meant we couldn’t gather to either mourn or celebrate.  But her departure has not meant she and her infectious, delightful, and vigorous life with us and for us has been forgotten.  

For her, the Board of Directors has authorized the placement of a Memorial Brick on our front Walk of Honor.  We hope everyone – members and community residents – will pause and view that with knowledge of the fond memories we have of this wonderful person.

On behalf of the Board,
Scott Walker,  Vice President