Nancy Griffin Worssam

Nancy Griffin Worssam, beloved wife of Bill Seach, passed away peacefully on June 6, 2025, after a brief illness. Born in Connecticut in 1935, Nancy brought light and curiosity into the world from an early age.

A gifted and exceptional student, she graduated at the top of her high school class and was elected to Phi Beta Kappa in college. After graduating early, she married her first husband, John Worssam, and soon became a mother of two children. Though the marriage ended in divorce, it marked the beginning of her journey into parenthood, a role she cherished throughout her life. As women's opportunities expanded in the 1960s, Nancy earned a master’s degree in Anthropology and completing all but her dissertation toward a PhD. Her career reflected a deep commitment to curiosity, cultural awareness and learning.

Nancy taught Anthropology at Quinnipiac College (now University), and later moved to Washington, D.C., to serve as a program officer for the National Endowment for the Humanities. Her work there took her across the country, supporting state humanities programs and championing cultural initiatives.

It was on one such journey that she met Bill Seach, a fellow traveler who would become her lifelong companion and partner in love. They met on a flight to D.C., struck up a conversation over a shared love of books and ideas, and began a journey that would span nearly 45 years. Married in 1988, they built a life together full of warmth, mutual admiration, and laughter.

In 1986, Nancy and Bill moved to Chicago, where she served as Director of Program Development at the Lincoln Park Zoological Society. She later founded her own consulting practice, helping cultural and environmental organizations with strategic planning.

In 1998, Nancy began a new chapter in Seattle, turning her focus to writing. She contributed human-interest pieces and arts criticism to the Magnolia/Queen Anne News, The Seattle Times, and her own blog, ArtsStage-Seattle Rage. She had a gift for capturing the spirit of both large and small productions, often spotlighting emerging artists and companies in Seattle’s vibrant theater scene.

Nancy also authored and edited several books, including In Our Prime, Three in a Flash, and Hanging Up Memories, a personal reflection on the people who shaped her life. All are available on Amazon.

In 2018, Nancy and Bill moved to Sedona, Arizona, to be closer to her children and grandchildren. She continued to write, reflect, and enjoy life surrounded by the red rocks and people she loved.

Nancy is survived by her husband William Seach, her two precious children, Geoffrey Worssam (SamiLyn) of Sedona and Jillian Worssam of Flagstaff and her two beloved grandchildren, Aspen and Sage. She ended her life as she began it—with joy, a sense of wonder, and love all around her.

She will be remembered for her intellect, wit, strength of character, and the generous spirit she shared with all who knew her.