Nancy (Hamilton) Ames, age 94, passed away peacefully of natural causes on November 30, 2025, in Natick.
Born on June 4, 1931, in Medford, MA, Nancy was the beloved daughter of George and Caroline Hamilton. She was the youngest of four children and was predeceased by her siblings John Hamilton, Barbara Hamilton, and Phyllis Ciccone.
Nancy was a proud graduate of Brookline High School and began her working life as a fashion model for Jordan Marsh. After graduating from the Chandler School for Women in 1957, she enjoyed a long career as a secretary, including many years supporting the family business, Al Ames Automotive. After that business was sold, she partnered with her son, Steve, to begin and run Ames Family Cycle in Marlborough, MA.
On June 25, 1965, Nancy married the love of her life, Albert Ames. Her devotion to Albert—and his to her—was remarkable; the two were truly inseparable. Together, they created a warm and joyful home and shared a deep love of travel, visiting all 50 states and taking memorable trips to Costa Rica, Panama, and England.
Nancy also found great happiness in music. An accomplished piano player, she filled her home with melodies that brought comfort, cheer, and connection. Her smile could light up a room, and she brought that same joy to every gathering. Her favorite celebration was the Fourth of July pool party—an annual tradition full of sunshine, family, friends, and spirited rounds of bocce. Those afternoons of laughter and togetherness were among her most treasured moments.
She is survived by her sons, Stephen Hamilton of Natick, Kenny Ames (Carol) of Worcester, MA, and Rich Ames (Patty) of Framingham, MA. Nancy was also a devoted and loving stepmother to Sherrill Weisman (David) of Portland, ME, and Tim Ames (Kim) of Yarmouth, MA.
Known to her family as Nana, Nancy cherished her role as grandmother to ten grandchildren and great-grandmother to four, each of whom brought her immeasurable joy.
Nancy will be remembered for her love of family, her gentle spirit, her music, her laughter, her smile, her sense of adventure, and the warmth she brought to every moment. Her legacy of kindness, devotion, and quiet strength will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
Services for Nancy will be private. If you would like to remember her, play the piano, dance to some music, or book a trip (but remember to send a postcard!)