Nancy Grace Howard, 69, of Austin, Texas, went into the light on September 24, 2025. Known to many as “Mamba,” Nancy was a beloved mother, sister, grandmother, aunt, and friend—an example of love, tolerance, and resilience whose guidance was sought by many.

Born on March 16, 1956, in Midland, Texas, Nancy devoted her life to healing and community. A registered massage therapist, she studied multiple healing modalities and shared her wisdom generously, becoming a “village mom” to countless people. She was active in AA and in healer circles, where her compassion and insight made her a steady presence. When she became a grandmother, the name “Mamba” lovingly followed—and soon everyone called her by it.

Nancy delighted in the natural world: horses, flowers, angels, and the quiet beauty of rocks and crystals. She admired creativity, talent and art, and had many gifts of her own—an expert seamstress and bead worker, a guitar player, an excellent home cook, and a student of natural herbs and remedies. In her younger years she traveled widely, savoring the country’s landscapes and adventures.

Nancy is survived by her daughter, Heather Kristine Fojtasek; granddaughter, Elsa Maya Copado; brothers, Randy Howard and Marc & wife Vickie Howard; niece Emily Howard & husband Eric Foreman; nephew Andy Howard, Julie Engler & daughter Millie Rose, and her cat and companion of 12 years Juno, the Lion. She is preceded in death by her parents Ray O. and Sweet Millie Howard; brother Zack Howard; nephew Troy Hopkins; and her kitties Momzi Mata, D'jango, and Shadow.

She was a very special person to many, remembered for her unique and unexpected ways of approaching life.

Nancy Grace, Mamba, Nancy, or Ms. Nancy —however you knew her— lived fully, with indulgence, fun, and adventure. She found joy in a good coffee or fancy chocolate; in smelling candles at a store; listening to birds in a garden; admiring fountains, wind chimes, and yard art; or taking drives in the country. She rode horses in West Texas, swam with dolphins in Key West, crossed the nation on road trips, and visited national parks. In later years, a rare and severe form of lymphedema accompanied her journey. Even amid great pain and challenges faced, she remained a beacon of strength and love, making sure everyone knew they were treasured. Her path became a teacher to all who walked beside her.

A memorial of Nancy’s life is planned at Riverbend Chapel Saturday October 18, 2025 from 1:00 to 2:00, followed with a small gathering of light food and refreshments then a walk through Remembrance Gardens.

4214 N Capital of Texas Hwy.

Austin, TX 78746.

Also, we have put together a fundraiser to help with expenses we have to face related to our situation. We thank anybody who is able to help us.

https://gofund.me/536354fa0

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