Nancy Rickards had life-long medical challenges including multiple hospitalizations and 30 operations. Her love of learning, her friends, her employment and her animal companions provided joy and distraction from the pain and disabilities she faced on a daily basis. It was her decision to leave a portion of her estate to support animal welfare and the prevention of animal cruelty. Her career path as a social worker and her charitable interests reflects her desire to make a positive difference in the lives of others. Nancy J. Rickards died in February 2012 but her legacy of giving continues through annual fund disbursements.