Nancy A. (Figliola) Sowden, age 96, of Wilmington, DE, passed away on her birthday, Wednesday, March 25, 2026, peacefully surrounded by her loving family. She was a graduate of Brown Vocational High School Class of 1948. Nancy worked at Hearns Bros (seven years) and Save-A-Lot Grocery Store (five years) in the meat and deli department. She later opened her own at-home daycare, where she provided devoted care to children for fifteen years.
Nancy dedicated her life to nurturing those she loved. Her family was her greatest joy, and she showed it in every hug, every encouraging word, and every moment she gave so freely. Her home was a place where everyone felt welcome, understood, and cherished.
Nancy found joy in crocheting Afghans, Christmas stockings, dishcloths, and macramé. She loved word search puzzles, coloring, drawing, and ceramics. Board games shared around her table were never just games; they were treasured moments filled with laughter, connection, and friendly competition.
She lived her 96 years with grace, humor, and a deep appreciation for the people around her. To know her was to feel loved, supported, and seen.
She leaves behind a family who will forever carry her lessons, her warmth, and her love in their hearts. Though she is no longer with us, the mark she left on our lives will remain—soft, steady, and everlasting. Her life was a gift, and her memory will continue to be a blessing.
She was preceded in death by her parents Nicholas and Jennie Figliola; her first husband, James M. Kemp; her former husband, William A Sowden; her brother Anthony Figliola; her sisters, Ellen DeStefano and Margaret Cicchini; and great-granddaughter, Taylor Roberts.
She is survived by her three children, Carol Kemp Roberts of Wilmington, DE; Donald Kemp (Sallie) of FL; and Joanne Ferrara (Sam) of Newark, DE; and her sister, Catherine Gray of Wilmington, DE.
Surviving are her six grandchildren, thirteen great-grandchildren, and six great-great grandchildren.
Services will be held on Tuesday March 31 at McCrery and Harra Funeral Home, 3710 Kirkwood Highway Wilmington, DE 19808. Visitation is 10:00am-11:00am, service is 11:00-12:00pm. Click the following link to view service @10:45 am. https://my.gather.app/remember/nancy-sowden
Burial will follow at Cathedral Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be sent to Alzheimer’s Association.
