Nancy Ann Rafferty, 91 of Schoolcraft, passed away September 21, 2025. She was born in Chicago April 28, 1934. Nancy’s family eventually moved to Schoolcraft, and she graduated from Schoolcraft High School in 1952. She earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Michigan and a master’s degree in library science from Western Michigan University, achievements she valued throughout her life.
She was passionate about learning and teaching and had a 40-plus year career in classrooms and libraries in Hastings, Constantine, and Schoolcraft. She married William Richard “Dick” Rafferty, and together they raised their four children in Schoolcraft.
She was involved in many agencies and non-profits and was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Schoolcraft. She is survived by her children Rick (Mary) Rafferty, of Ft. Thomas, Kentucky; Kathleen Dixon, of Cincinnati; Don (Janice) Rafferty, of Cincinnati; and James (Toni) Rafferty, of Schoolcraft; grandchildren Dianna (Chad) Coley, Cullen (Ashley) Dixon, Cormac (Olivia) Dixon, Jack and Ian Rafferty, and Jozie and Drew Rafferty; great grandchildren Kylie, Kinsley, and Caden Dixon; Brooks and Baylor Coley; Eleanor and Cooper Dixon, with one more on the way. She is also survived by brother Don Swartz and many nieces, nephews, and extended family. She was preceded in death by her parents; a sister, Harriett, and brother, Mike. Visitation will be held on Friday, October 17, 2025, from 4:30-7:30 p.m. at the Schoolcraft High School Cafeteria, 13400 South 14th Street, Schoolcraft. The funeral service will be held at First Presbyterian Church, 224 East Cass Street, Schoolcraft, on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at 11 a.m. The family invites family and friends to join them for a bite to eat in Nancy’s honor at Wind + James in Schoolcraft following the funeral service. Please visit Nancy’s webpage at www.amsfuneralhomes.com.
