Nancy Geils

In Loving Memory. 

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Nancy K. Geils, who departed this life peacefully at home on July 7, 2025, surrounded by her husband, daughter, son, and son-in-law.

Born on June 4, 1943, in Tenafly, New Jersey, to Carl and Stephanie (Kwaitkoski) Passera, Nancy graduated from Tenafly High School in 1961. After graduation, she worked in New York City for a fashion house and modeled for designer Bonnie Cashin.

She met and married John Geils on August 1, 1964, and the couple settled in Suffern, New York, where they raised their two children.

Nancy was a woman of many talents and endless curiosity. She earned her RN degree from Rockland Community College and worked for a chiropractor but soon realized her true passion lay in the arts. She went on to graduate from Marymount College in Tarrytown with a Bachelor of Science in Art, later attending classes at the Fashion Institute of Technology to hone her skills in design.

Her homes were her canvases. Nancy took great pride in designing and decorating the spaces she shared with her family, turning each one into a reflection of her refined taste and creative spirit. These beautifully curated homes often became showcases for potential clients as she built her successful career in interior design.

Inspired by her travels to Africa and beyond, Nancy incorporated diverse influences and themes into her work. She also showcased her designs in Designer Show Homes, where her creativity and attention to detail shone brightly.

Nancy’s artistry extended into the kitchen. A passionate and adventurous cook, she loved exploring international cuisines and teaching herself how to prepare dishes from around the world. Friends and family were often invited to share in her culinary creations, and she was always happy to pass along her recipes.

Nancy was the glue that held her extended family together. Everyone looked forward to her annual Christmas gatherings, the cherished time each year when the entire family came together to celebrate, laugh, and make memories.

After retiring, Nancy and John moved to Queen Creek, Arizona. More recently, they moved to Madison, WI to be closer to their daughter.

Nancy is survived by her loving husband, John H. Geils III; children, Jennifer Geils (Rich Cizauskas) and John Geils (Andi); and grandchildren, Christopher and Alexia Geils. She is also survived by her brother Carl Passera (Helen Swarbrick).

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the American Cancer Society in Nancy’s memory.

Nancy will be deeply missed but never forgotten. May she rest in peace.