Nancy A. Herrin Foundation

An Angel of God (In Loving Memory 1959-2005)

Nancy A. Herrin was born and raised in Akron, OH. She was a single mother who had a close relationship with her only child Tanisha L. Herrin. Her passing was sudden and for some it hasn't been easy adjusting to life without her. Though she had a learning disability she had a passion for reading and learning new things. She loved children and was a great caregiver to her grandson whom she loved dearly.

Nancy was a warm, caring and smart individual. She may not have been able to work a 9 to 5 job yet she found joy and comfort in being a homemaker. She was known for keeping her home neat, tidy, and in order.

Nancy was very supportive as a mother and to family and friends in the Akron community. Nancy experienced major struggles throughout her lifetime. Her positive strengths displayed during her struggles inspired her daughter to get her first summer job at age 14 working in the local community. Tanisha was amazed with so many things her mother taught her yet it saddens her at the same time that she must continue her journey without her insight, opinions, wisdom, and encouragement. Nancy was and will always be Tanisha's inspiration.

Having to live through many struggles and being very uncomfortable in school were just a few factors that may have contributed to Tanisha's state of depression that she struggled with for over 10 years. Tanisha sought help about 2 weeks before Nancy died.  She never got to share her emotions, thoughts, or even the diagnosis with her mother.  There were times throughout the years growing up Tanisha may have been moody or didn't feel like eating, sleeping or doing any hobbies. She even tried to take her own life on different occasions. The usual feeling everyday was "down" very often. 

At times Nancy could tell something was wrong. There would be times they would argue or fight over nothing. It wasn't understood why Tanisha felt the way she did until Nancy passed.

Nancy considered waking up in the morning a pure blessing. She was appreciative of help and assistance she received from family and friends throughout her life. She often enjoyed sharing fun and memorable experiences with those she cared about. She was thankful for all individuals who were in her life.

Nancy always wanted to be remembered as being a happy woman. For years that didn't make sense to her daughter until the morning she passed. All of this time Tanisha felt she was unhappy for all the wrong reasons. From Nancy's passing Tanisha has learned to focus more on family, friends, and most of all herself. Tanisha's biggest fear was that she would forget things about her mother. So many little things added up to something so valuable and irreplaceable.

Starting the Nancy A Herrin Foundation Inc. is a small way of telling Nancy: Thank You.

It's the least that can be done for a special tribute to her life and how much she meant to those who knew her while keeping the memories we have left of her fresh in our minds. The foundation will give back to the community Nancy lived in by "simply helping others one donation at a time."