Nancy P Sakas

When I look back at my life, I'm surprised where I ended up. In high school, all I wanted was a career. Then I turned down the job of a lifetime to stay home and raise the children I had with Tom, the love of my life. I couldn't be happier with my children and who they are. I never expected any of this, but it turns out I wanted all of it.

Obituary

Nancy Sakas passed away peacefully on January 24, 2026, surrounded by her family, her devoted caretaker Kamala, and the compassionate staff at The Regency at Glen Cove. 

Nancy Sakas lived a life defined by independence, conviction, intellectual curiosity, and a deep love of culture, family, and friendship.  Born on July 10, 1932, in Fredericksburg, Virginia, Nancy was the daughter of a Greek immigrant father, William (Vasilios) Sakas, and a determined Southern mother, Cleora (Lacy) Sakas. Growing up in the segregated South, she learned early how to stand up to prejudice and injustice—lessons that shaped her worldview and her fierce sense of right and wrong.

Her love of learning carried her far beyond her small-town roots. Nancy attended Duke University, earning a degree in political science by the age of nineteen. There, she developed a lifelong passion for culture and spirited debate, as well as the confidence to challenge convention and speak her mind in a world not always ready for women who led with strength and independence.

After graduation, Nancy moved to Washington, D.C., where she began a career in publishing and sales. A weekend trip to New York City to visit a friend—and a chance meeting at a Greek gala—altered the course of her life. At a Greek Gala at the Plaza, she met Tom Sakas, the son of Greek immigrants and co-owner of the Gramercy Park Florist. He became the love of her life and her true partner.

Nancy and Tom married and settled in Douglaston, Queens, where they raised three children: William, Tommy, and Thana. Determined to remain professionally engaged while being fully present for her family, Nancy pursued a career that balanced both. While raising three children, she earned master’s degrees in education and library science and went on to become one of New York City’s top-rated high school librarians.

After Tom’s passing, Nancy carried on with grit, resilience, and a desire to do more. She served as president of the Douglaston Civic Association, fiercely advocating for the neighborhood she loved. In later years, she leaned into the city life she never outgrew, finding joy in the opera, the St. George’s Society, and the National Arts Club.

Looking back, she once said, “My sense of humor was my salvation…no matter if it was up or down, I’ve managed to find something to laugh about,” and she lived that truth: even in her darkest years, as dementia took its toll, she was still cracking wry-jokes and enjoyed moments of laughter.

Nancy was predeceased by her sister, Catherine De Scisciolo; her beloved husband, Tom Sakas; and her son, William Sakas. She is survived by her children, Tommy (Spiros) Sakas and Thana Sakas; Thana’s wife, Deborah Hutchinson; her daughter-in-law, Mari Fujimoto-Sakas; her cherished grandchildren, Zoe, Gregory, Osher, Lishai, Sage, and Maia; and many loving relatives, friends, colleagues, and neighbors who will miss her deeply.

The family will be holding a private Celebration of Life in Nancy’s honor.   In lieu of flowers, or if you would just like to remember her with us, please consider contributing to her memory by posting a story or reflection on her MEMORY WALL or a photograph in GALLERY.  Your words and pictures will mean a great deal to our family and help us celebrate Nancy the way she would have wanted - with love, laughter, and the people who knew her best.

Timeline

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February 6, 2026

Nancy was such a wonderful part of the St. George’s Society community. She brought warmth, generosity, and so much fun to every gathering (and always looked absolutely immaculate!) She will be fondly remembered.

Anna Titley

February 6, 2026

I remember Nancy with great fondness. She was a true class act who touched so many people’s lives. Her love of the Saint George’s Society stood out.

Stephen. Storen

February 5, 2026

I am so saddened by the loss of Nancy. I met her over 20 years ago when I joined The St George's Society and served with her on the Ball Committee. She was a charming, vibrant, witty woman who always dazzled in her beautiful gowns at the annual English Ball. I spent many happy hours in her company, and especially loved her summer garden parties at her home in Douglaston. Hers was a life well lived, Godspeed, Nancy.

Moya Keys

February 5, 2026

I first met Nancy and her fellow volunteer June Briggs in 2008. They were efficient and cheerful presence in St George’s Society’s office putting all the details in place for our English Ball. She helped make the Ball our most important fundraising event a success for many years. She was an exceptional volunteer and SGS was fortunate in her good work for us.

Mary Lamasney

February 5, 2026

I had the pleasure of meeting Nancy through the St. George’s Society of NY over a decade ago. I didn’t know Nancy when we were both put on the same “events committee” and I was a bit nervous that the age difference meant me wouldn’t be aligned. I couldn’t have been more wrong. She had a Joie de vivre which reflected in all her interactions. She added wisdom and energy and no shortage of that sharp wit you have referred to. She was fun to have around and I’m truly sorry for all your families loss.

Richard Sexton

February 5, 2026

Every day for many, many years I water a plant - and its off-springs - that Nancy gave to me - I remember a trip we made to Saratoga staying at Thana’s condo and many more delightful times at St George’s - volunteering, attending events, but mostly laughing and enjoying life - a lovely lady in every way

Missi Gibbs

February 5, 2026

St. George's Society of New York is happy to share fond memories of Nancy and recognize her many contributions to the Society over the years.

St. George's Society of New York

February 5, 2026

This is how I remember Nancy, the life of the party smiling and talking with everyone and the best Grandma a mother could ask for. Thank you for being such an incredible mother-in-law, grandmother and friend.

REBECCA DUMAIS

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