Nancy June Martin, 81, of Newtown, passed away peacefully on April 14, 2025, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. She was surrounded by her loving family.

She was a beloved wife of Alan R. Martin and devoted mother of Arianne Martin and son-in-law Ken Labrie and Ami Wilber. She was born June 1, 1943 in Bay Ridge, New York, to Albert and Catherine (Alpert) Raphael. Nancy attended Fort Hamilton High School in Bay Ridge. She then earned her bachelor’s degree in education from the University of Bridgeport and her master’s degree in education from Fairfield University. In August 1967, she married the love of her life, Alan R. Martin. As a longtime dedicated teacher of 47 years, Nancy taught at Farmingville School (where she met her husband-to-be), Huckleberry Hill School, Hawley School, and 24 years at Newtown Middle School, as an English teacher and coordinator of the English department and advisor to the literary magazine. She spent her last 17 years teaching as an English and speech instructor at Housatonic Community College. During the span of her career as an educator, she earned a reputation as an extraordinary teacher and mentor. Over the years, many of her former students remained in contact with her.

Nancy was a very active member of the Newtown community. She served as PTA president of Sandy Hook School, a committee member of the American Field Service, a member of the Newtown Family Life Board, and co-chair of the Newtown Labor Day parade.

Nancy enjoyed vacationing with her family and friends on Cape Cod for the last fifty years. She loved traveling across the country and abroad. She also cherished her book club of over 20 years, which consisted of retired middle school teachers. She was an avid knitter and loved to garden.

Nancy was known for her kindness to others and was a fiercely loyal friend who would do anything for you. Nancy had a sense of style, was an amazing cook and gracious host. Her family meant everything to her; she was a loving mother and wife until the very end.

Visitation hours will be held on Friday, April 25, from 4-7 pm, at Honan Funeral Home, 58 Main Street in Newtown.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Nancy’s name, designated for Praxair Cancer Center can be sent to Foundations of Nuvance Health, PO Box 22539, New York NY 10087-2539, or online at Nuvancehealth.org/giving.