Nancy J. McAlary, age 82, of Grand Rapids, passed away Tuesday, February 14, 2023, under the care of Hospice and her family. The daughter of Walter and Jeanette (Brom) Behrens, Nancy Behrens was born on August 12, 1940, in Grand Rapids. She graduated from Union High School. She worked until retirement for various employers including Dexter Lock, Kent Community Hospital, and Gordon Food Service.

Nancy was a loving mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and cousin, and a very good friend to many. She cherished the people she met and the memories she made during her winters in Venice, Florida, as well as the friends she made during her short time at Marsh Ridge. Nancy enjoyed reading, traveling, playing cards, and spending time with friends and family, especially all of the new babies and children in the family.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Robert McAlary; her brothers Jack Behrens, Jim Behrens, and Jerry Behrens; and her sister Judi (Behrens) Smith.

She will be greatly missed by her daughter, Nikki (Terry) Sanford; her grandson, Jordan (Lilly Rossi) Sanford; her granddaughter, Hanna Sanford; her sister Terri (Paul) Schmitt, and a number of extended family and friends she cared about deeply. Nancy's wishes included cremation and no public funeral. A memorial "picnic" will be planned in warmer weather.