Nancy Faisant
Feb. 25, 1936-Nov. 18, 2025
Portola Valley, California

Nancy Faisant, 89, of Portola Valley, CA, passed away peacefully on November 18, 2025, at her long-term residence, The Sequoias. Born on February 25, 1936, in Oakland to Chet and Evelyn Southard, Nancy grew up on a small ranch with her brother in a home filled with love and laughter. In her youth, she was often found tending to her dog and horse, dreaming of one day becoming a veterinarian. Nancy attended San Jose State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design. Her lifelong devotion to animals led her to a long tenure with Pets In Need, one of the few no-kill shelters of its era. She eventually served as the organization's president, helping to sustain a mission that continues to thrive today. Entrepreneurial and hard-working, Nancy also owned and operated a live-operator telephone answering service for businesses in the Menlo Park area. In 1976, she married the love of her life, Robin Faisant. Together, they beautifully blended their two families and began a 49-year journey of proud love and deep companionship. Nancy joined Rob in his passion for the mountains; while he served as an avalanche expert for Alpine Meadows, Nancy became a ski patroller herself, a role they shared for many years. Nancy was a gifted artist known for her vibrant oil paintings inspired by her global travels. Beyond her art, her greatest investment was in her family’s faith. She and Rob were deeply involved with Mount Hermon Christian Camp, where they funded camping stays for their children and grandchildren for decades. Nancy was defined by her kindness, her heart for Jesus, and her loving spirit. Always radiating a beautiful optimism for life, she spoke encouragement, truth, and unwavering love into the lives of those she cared for. Nancy is survived by her husband, Rob Faisant; daughters Kristy Palmer (Tom), Kathy Larson (Tom), Betsy Wheeler (Paul), Daryl Gerber, and Kimberly Greene; nieces Paula Leary (Terry), Sally Hanseth (Jay); nephew Clay Hanseth; nine grandchildren Megan, Kim, Brian, Scott, Jeff, Sarah, Kevin, Jack, and Bryce; and four great-nieces and nephews Kathleen, Kelly, Dylan, and Clay; and many great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents, brother Clay Southard, and daughter Stephanie Wood.

Tags: arts/media, business