Nancy Rowena Curtis Buma

Was called to heaven on May 15, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of deep love, unwavering strength, and extraordinary kindness that touched all who knew her. Born in Salt Lake City, Utah, on September 16, 1942, Nancy began life as a fighter! She arrived prematurely and weighed only three pounds and survived against all odds as a “miracle baby.” That same quiet determination defined the remarkable life she would go on to lead.

Nancy’s presence lit up every room with her beautiful smile, soft hands, and natural grace, she turned heads. It was Nancy’s natural warmth, humor, and empathy that warmed our hearts and gave us comfort always.

She married Grant Buma and together they raised four children; Betsy, Suzy, Michael, and Johnathan, instilling in each of them the values of kindness, resilience, love and devotion.

A gifted preschool teacher, Nancy taught generations of children, including her own grandchildren, at Garfield Elementary, where she attended school as a child. Her classroom was a haven of joy and creative freedom. She had a way of making every child feel loved and valued. Her compassion extended far beyond the school walls, by caring and comforting family and the elderly as a CNA, and sharing heartfelt notes, perfect gifts and witty poems. Nancy gave of herself endlessly.

As a mother of four, grandmother to ten, and great-grandmother to four, Nancy’s nurturing spirit knew no bounds.

Holidays with her were a magical mix of homemade jello, celery with cheese and onions, the perfect ham, mashed potatoes and green jello salad. She found joy in everyday moments, watching her grandchildren play, sharing adventures, or playing the ukulele and piano. She remembered every birthday and sent sweet cards with a little surprise tucked inside, she was the best at giving fun little treasures.

At age 80, Nancy was diagnosed with cancer. She again became a “miracle” survivor and defied the odds with incredible tenacity, enjoying 33 more precious months filled with love, laughter, travel, music, and spending time with loved ones. In her final lovely days, she gave the most valuable blessing of all and shared her time and sweet spirit with her loving and devoted daughter Suzy and her son in law Chris where she lived with them surrounded by the family she had so lovingly nurtured her entire life while enjoying beautiful flowers and birds and snuggling in cozy warm blankets.

Nancy passed as she lived – with humor, dignity, and grace. Just two days before her death, she was still adventuring, advocating for her children, and offering encouragement and love. Her enduring spirit and belief in the Lord and selfless love for her family are a testimony to her strength and perfection as a Mother.

The stories of sunbathing on the beach when she attended BYU Hawaii and wearing her poodle skirts and Jansen sweaters while dancing and teaching will continue to make us smile. Nancy (gig) was one of the best of us. Perfect in every way! We love you dearly sweet Mom, your love and memory will be eternal!

Nancy is preceded in death by her parents; Cyril Henry Curtis and Rowena Moncur and her Brother David Curtis. Nancy is survived by her former husband Grant Buma, her four children, Betsy Buma Faerber (Matthew), Suzanne Buma Burton (Christopher), Michael Buma, and Johnathon Buma; her grandchildren, Heather Hardy, Cameron Faerber, Sean Faerber, Marissa Faerber, Zackary Meyer, Zemi Meyer, Zane Meyer, Jacob Buma, Leo Buma, and Zoya Buma; her great-grandchildren, Alden Hardy, Liesel Hardy, Maxwell Hardy and Maze Meyer.