Nancy Ruth Cervi

Nancy Ruth Stockstill Cervi

July 13, 1951 – October 28, 2026

Nancy Ruth Cervi—known affectionately as “Nancy Ruth,” “Nanny,” and “Big Nancy”—passed away suddenly on October 28, 2026, far too soon for the family and friends who loved her. She lived with an open heart, an open door, and a remarkable instinct for knowing when someone needed her.

Born in Pampa, Texas, on July 13, 1951, to Bill and Ruth Strandberg Stockstill, Nancy grew up in the Texas Panhandle. She graduated from Miami High School in 1969, attended South Plains College, and graduated from Tarleton State University.

From her time as Miss Frontier Airlines to her career with United Airlines, Nancy traveled the world and built lasting friendships. She also helped introduce mutton busting to the rodeo arena, sharing the sport with its youngest competitors. Rodeo and ranch life were woven into who she was, and her rodeo family stretched around the world.

Above all, Nancy loved her family. Her sons, Binion and Chase, held a place in her heart that only a mother’s love could fill. Her granddaughters, Reagan, Reece, and Clay Lynn, were her greatest joy. Of all her adventures, nothing mattered more than being their mother and Nanny. Her love was deep and unconditional.

Nancy was a giver. If you needed her, she showed up at the drop of a hat. She might not have been able to fix everything, but she could certainly fill your refrigerator—and she usually did. Feeding and entertaining people was one of the many ways she said, “I love you.” Over the years, she welcomed countless people to the ranch, made room at the table, and made sure everyone was cared for.

She loved a good shopping trip and the cheerful sound of a winning “cha-ching!” She had a style all her own, and her quick humor, playful spirit, and love of a good prank kept everyone laughing and wondering what she might do next.

Nancy is survived by her sons, Binion Cervi and his wife, Hannah Chase Cervi and his wife, Carley; her beloved granddaughters, Reagan, Reece, and Clay Lynn Cervi; and her loving sister, Mary Ann Gill. Nancy Ruth and Mary Ann shared a lifetime of memories, laughter, and unwavering love.

She also leaves behind her beloved nephew and nieces, William Gill and his wife, Joeletta, Nancy Gill, Lindsay King and her husband, Kody, and Lael and Lauren Stockstill. She dearly loved the next generation: Kutter, Trevor, and Fletcher Gill, and Kennedy Byrd. She is also survived by her very special friends, Laura Addington, Tom Feller, and Penny Gutterson.

Nancy leaves behind a family whose hearts are shattered but whose lives are forever richer because of her love. Her generosity, laughter, and gift for making people feel cared for will live on in those who knew her.

A celebration of Nancy’s life was held on November 1, 2026, at Greeley Country Club in Greeley, Colorado. A graveside service will be held on November 24, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at Roberts County Cemetery in Miami, Texas, where her ashes will be laid to rest. The family will receive friends and loved ones following the service.