Nancy Jones

Nancy Genco Jones of St. Petersburg passed away peacefully in her home on January 8, 2026, surrounded by her family. She was under the care of Suncoast Hospice. Nancy bravely fought stage 4 lung cancer for four years with the same strength and optimism she demonstrated every day of her life.

Nancy was born and raised in Brooklyn, NY. She was a graduate of St. Therese of Lisieux School and Prospect Heights High School. She worked briefly on Wall Street before marrying the love of her life, Larry, on October 2, 1965. They were married for 58 years before Larry's death in 2023. Nancy and Larry were the proud parents of two sons, Lawrence and Frank. She loved being a mom and embraced the challenges and joys of parenthood enthusiastically.

After briefly living in Deer Park, Long Island, Nancy and Larry moved to St. Petersburg in 1973. From 1981-1984, Nancy served as President of U.P.E.C. (United Parents of Exceptional Children), a support organization for families of children with disabilities. Nancy worked at Goodwill Industries from 1994-1996 as a Supportive Living Coach, assisting clients with skills to increase independence within the community. She was a tireless advocate for her clients and wanted to learn and do more, so she enrolled at St. Petersburg Junior College in 1998 and became a Certified Activities Director. In 2002, Nancy began working as the Activities Director at Palm Gardens of Pinellas until her retirement in 2014. She was beloved by the residents and staff for her ever-cheerful demeanor, and she loved them back. In 2011, Nancy published an article, "Best Practice: Testing the Theory," with Taylor and Francis. She completed many courses and certifications during her career with the National Association of Activity Professionals.

In retirement, Nancy enjoyed Zumba dance classes and performing. During the pandemic, she and her former colleagues would meet in a park, each bringing a chair set six feet apart to catch up. Friendships were very important to her. She was able to fulfill her bucket list wish to visit Palermo, Sicily, and find the house where her father grew up. Accompanied by her family and best friend, she actually found the house and her wish list was completed.

Nancy was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Larry, and her parents, Frank and Pauline Genco. She is survived by her two loving sons, Lawrence and Frank, her devoted daughter-in-law Kim, and her grandsons, Kadin and Davin Jones.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Nancy's memory to Suncoast Hospice Foundation at https://suncoasthospicefoundation.org/donations2 or by calling donor services at 727-523-2441.