Nancy A. Lanata, a loving, kind, and thoughtful woman whose life was marked by devotion to her family, her faith, and her community, died on May 6, 2026.

Born to the late Vincent and Dorothy Holland, Nancy carried with her throughout her life the strong values of hard work, compassion, and service that were rooted in her family upbringing. She was educated in the schools of her youth and later earned her bachelor’s degree from Boston State University, an accomplishment that reflected both her determination and her commitment to learning. Those who knew Nancy understood that she approached life with purpose and grace, and she was the kind of person who brought steadiness and warmth to every room she entered.

Nancy devoted much of her professional life to teaching at St. Angela’s School, where she shared not only knowledge but also patience, encouragement, and genuine care for her students. She believed in the importance of education and in the power of a teacher to shape young lives in meaningful ways. Her influence extended beyond the classroom, as she remained a trusted and admired presence to many who benefited from her guidance and example. She was the sort of teacher who remembered the details that mattered, who listened carefully, and who made others feel seen and valued.

Her faith was an important part of her life, and she gave generously of her time to Parkway United Methodist Church. For more than three decades, Nancy volunteered faithfully at the church and at its food pantry, offering her energy and compassion to help others in need. She also taught Sunday school, where her gentle spirit and sincere devotion made a lasting impression on the children she taught. Nancy’s service was not occasional or convenient. It was a steady and lifelong expression of who she was. She was always keeping busy, and her busyness was never without meaning, as she filled her days with acts of kindness and care for others.

Nancy was deeply devoted to her family and treasured the relationships that gave her life such joy and purpose. She was the beloved wife of the late Charles Lanata Sr., and together they shared a life built on love and family. She was the cherished mother of Charles Lanata Jr. and his wife Karen of Milton. Nancy took immense joy in her granddaughter, Mila, who brought her great happiness and became one of the brightest lights in her later years. Becoming a grandmother at 85 was a blessing she embraced wholeheartedly, and Mila held a very special place in her heart. Nancy loved her family dearly, and that love was evident in the way she cared, remembered, and remained present in their lives. She is also survived by her brother, Carl Holland and his wife Gail of Middleboro. She was predeceased by her brothers David Holland and Charles Holland. Her family connections were an important part of her life, and she valued the bonds that tied generations together.

Nancy’s life reflected the strength of those relationships and the comfort that comes from a close and loving family. Nancy will be remembered for her gentle nature, her unwavering kindness, and the thoughtful way she moved through the world. She was a woman of quiet strength, deep faith, and enduring generosity.

Her legacy lives on in the family she loved, the students she taught, the church community she served, and the many lives she touched through decades of selfless giving. Those who were fortunate enough to know her will remember her as someone who gave freely of herself and whose presence made life better for others.

Though her passing leaves a deep sorrow, Nancy’s life stands as a beautiful testament to love, service, and devotion. Her memory will be treasured always by those who knew and loved her, and her example will continue to inspire all who were touched by her kindness.

Visiting hours will be held at the Alfred D. Thomas Funeral Home 326 Granite Ave Milton on Monday May 11th from 4:00-7:00pm. A Funeral Service will be held at the Parkway United Methodist Church in Milton on Tuesday May 12th at 11:00am. Burial will be private for the family.