Nancy Ebert Bedford

Nancy Ebert Bedford, 68, of Rochester, New York, passed away peacefully on January 9, 2026, surrounded by her loving family and friends after a courageous two-and-a-half-year journey with cancer. She faced her illness with the same grace, strength, and determination that defined her entire life. 

Nancy was born on July 30, 1957, in Rochester to the late Robert and Jeannette Ebert. The third of four children, she was raised in a close-knit family that instilled in her a deep Catholic faith and an unwavering commitment to those she loved. She graduated from Nazareth High School, where the all-girls Catholic education shaped her into the strong, compassionate woman she would become. 

Nancy built a successful career as an insurance claims adjuster, working for several companies before retiring from Erie Insurance. She was known professionally for her sharp mind, fairness, and dedication. As a single mother for many years, Nancy worked tirelessly to provide her son George with a Catholic education, sacrificing her own needs to ensure he had every opportunity. Even when she faced job loss, she found a way. She was tough but fair, always pushing George to do his best while being there to pick him up when he stumbled. Her hard work and devotion shaped him into the man he is today. 

Faith was the cornerstone of Nancy's life. She was a devoted member of Sacred Heart Cathedral for many decades, where she served in the bell choir before its disbandment and volunteered with the youth group, taking time off work to accompany young people to their convention in Indianapolis. In recent years, she transitioned to Holy Cross Church. Nancy's generosity of spirit was evident in everything she did. On Sunday mornings, she would bring donuts for the after-Mass gathering, and she never walked past the homeless man outside the church without sharing one with him. Her faith was not something she merely professed; it was something she lived.

For the past fifteen years, Nancy poured her heart into the North Greece Fire Department Auxiliary, joining in 2011 and most recently serving as Co-President alongside Sharon Hunt. She volunteered countless hours at fire department functions, sold tickets at the gate for sporting events, worked concession stands, and contributed to numerous other community efforts. Her involvement with the fire department also gave her the opportunity to travel throughout the country, experiences she treasured. Nancy had a gift for making people feel welcome. At every meeting, if she spotted a new face, she would walk right up, introduce herself, and make that person feel like they belonged. Whether it was a compliment about someone's shirt, a kind word about their jewelry, or simply a warm smile, Nancy had a way of making everyone feel seen and valued. 

Nancy was outgoing, dedicated, and fiercely loyal. She opened her arms to everyone and gave selflessly of her time, rarely taking the vacations she deserved because she was always busy caring for others. Above all, Nancy loved her family with her whole heart. She adored her grandchildren Hailey and Kensi and had a special bond with her great-niece Cayla, whom she affectionately called "C-Raye." Until her illness made it impossible, she never missed a chance to show up for her family—games, performances, and every milestone in between. Her pride in all of them knew no bounds. 

Nancy is survived by her devoted husband, Walter Bedford, a current Fire Commissioner and former Fire Chief of North Greece; her son, George Adams, and daughter-in-law, Melissa; her cherished grandchildren, Hailey and Kensi; her stepson Jason Bedford and his children Alyssa and Jason Jr.; her stepson James Bedford; her stepdaughter Becki Alman and son-in-law Nick, and their children Olivia, Vivian, Violet, and Maverick; her siblings, Joan (Don), Bobby, and Tom; her niece Colleen (Caleb) and great-niece Cayla; and extended family members and dear friends whose lives she touched. She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Jeannette Ebert. 

Nancy's light touched everyone who knew her. She was a lamp that guided her family through every challenge, a steady presence whose warmth and love will continue to shine through those she leaves behind. Though she is gone, her spirit, her values, and her love will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.

Calling hours will be held Wednesday, January 14, 4 to 7 PM - Farrell-Ryan Funeral & Cremation Services 777 Long Pond Rd, Rochester, NY 14612.

Funeral mass Thursday, January 15, 10:30 AM - Holy Cross Church 4492 Lake Ave, Rochester, NY 14612.

Interment will follow at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery for those who wish to attend. Memorial donations may be made to Hildebrandt Hospice, 2652 Ridgeway Avenue, Rochester, NY.