Nancy Hathaway

Nancy Preston Bush Hathaway, 86, of Chiefland, Florida, formerly of DeRuyter, New York, passed away unexpectedly on June 7, 2026, following a fall at her home.

Nancy was born on April 8, 1940, in Blossvale, PA, to Elwood and Marian Ferris Preston. Full of life, laughter, and adventure, Nancy embraced every day with enthusiasm and purpose.  Those who knew Nancy will remember her vibrant spirit, generous heart, and ability to make everyone laugh. Her passing leaves an immeasurable void in the lives of those who loved her.

As a teenager, she moved to Cortland, NY, where she later married Glenn Bush, Sr., and began raising their family.  Throughout her life, Nancy devoted herself to caring for others. She was a loving stay-at-home mother, worked in local factories, drove a school bus, and later retired from Madison County as a Home Health Aid. In 1989, Nancy accomplished a personal goal by completing her GED after 31 years, proving it’s never too late, she was so proud and so were we!

Nancy was a true warrior. She courageously battled and defeated cancer three separate times, facing each challenge with strength, resilience, and unwavering determination. She cherished time spent with family and friends, loved socializing, traveling, attending concerts and found great joy in country music—especially songs of Gene Watson, her favorite artist.

Nancy was predeceased by her beloved son, Stephen Bush, in 1994, her second husband, David S. Hathaway, in 2003 and Glenn Bush, Sr., father of their children in 2011, her brother, Raymond Preston; and sister, Laura Robinson.

She is survived by her children; Glenn Bush, Jr., Keith Bush (Julie), and Juanita Bush (Mark Nitti), her grandchildren; Jessi Bush (Jason), Keisha (Travis) Chase, Keegan (Brittany) Bush, Wyatt (Tori) Bush, Walker Bush, Everett and Ella Bush, her great-grandchildren; Lucille, Lennon, Colton, Lorel, Makenna, Evonne, her sister; Marilyn Preston, a very special niece; Trina Homer, along with many extended family members and dear friends.

To honor Nancy's memory, a brunch gathering for her Florida friends will be held on Thursday, June 11, from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. at Nancy's home. A Celebration of Life will also be held in New York at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Nancy's memory to your local hospice organization, a cause that held a special place in her heart.

Arrangements are entrusted to Weems & Sons Funeral Homes of Chiefland.