Nancy E. Benford, 78, passed away on July 30, 2021 after a long illness. She was born in Philadelphia on January 24, 1943 to the late Anthony and Evelyn (Schillack) Dougherty. Nancy was the loving wife of Joseph Benford for 25 years. She was a longtime employee of the Free Library of Philadelphia, working in various departments including the Rare Book Department, The Philbrick Lending Library, and The Philadelphia City Institute Library. Nancy loved to read and always looked forward to good times with her family and friends, especially her sorority sisters. Her favorite vacation for many years was in the Outer Banks. She is predeceased by her son Thomas Dougherty and brothers William and Dennis Dougherty.

She is survived by her husband Joseph; daughter Denise Carruolo (Lou); sister Kathleen Collier (William); sister-in-law Rosemary Dougherty; nieces; nephews; and many other loving family and friends.

All are invited to a visitation on Saturday, August 7 from 10-11am, followed by a memorial service at 11am, both at Kirk & Nice Suburban Chapel, 333 W. County Line Rd., Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Free Library of Philadelphia here .