Nancy Specht, a longtime summer resident of Chilmark, died on Saturday, April 24, at the JML Nursing Facility in Falmouth. She was 87. Her husband, Bob, her four children and their spouses, her adopted daughter and son in law, and one of her many grandchildren were all with her at the time of her death, an example of the strong and loving family she had raised.

Nancy’s calm and patient presence, and her quiet grace and strength were the foundation of that family. She was a model her children strove to emulate, and she and Bob offered them opportunities for education and travel that have enriched and shaped all their lives.

She was a friend to a great number of people, from her tennis partners in New Jersey to her beach companions on the Vineyard. Her natural reserve was complemented by her charm and intelligence. Even those who knew her only casually were smitten by her smile and her graciousness, and those lucky enough to count her as a friend were dedicated to her.

A memorial service is being planned for August on the Vineyard; the date will be announced in a future edition of the Gazette.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be sent to the Polly Hill Arboretum, P.O. Box 561, West Tisbury, MA 02575.

Arrangements are under the care of the Chapman, Cole and Gleason Funeral Home in Oak Bluffs.