Nancy Lou Richards Padilla, beloved wife, mother, grandmother and great‑grandmother passed away in Houston, Texas, on June 1, 2026, at the young age of 89, leaving a legacy of joy and unforgettable memories. She is preceded in death by her parents Louis and Pauline, sister Miki Brennan, and her son Joseph A. Padilla.

Nancy was born in Chicago, Illinois on March 3, 1937. Her family moved to San Jose, California in 1947, where she graduated from Campbell High School. Nancy went to Oberlin College, TCU and earned her degree in microbiology from San Jose State where she was a proud member of Alpha Omicron Pi Sorority.

She traveled the world, visiting Japan, Philippines, and Thailand before heading to Hawaii for her career.  Nancy worked as a research assistant for the University of Hawaii.

She once said she would find her husband in Hawaii, and she did. She met Joe Padilla at a young professional's monthly beach dinner on Waikiki. Their first date was to see the Smothers Brothers, and less than a year later, on a Sunday afternoon, May 23, Joe turned to Nancy and said, "we're engaged, alright?"  It was the beginning of a beautiful marriage that lasted a lifetime.

Nancy's marriage to Joe spanned over 60 remarkable years. Their enduring partnership was a testament to unwavering commitment and deep love. Together they raised four sons who arrived within a span of just six years. They had a bond strengthened by Nancy's extraordinary patience and love of reading.

In 1975, the family moved to Texas, where Nancy made her home for the rest of her life. She quickly became active in her community with bridge, tennis tournaments and monthly dinners. She manuevered from soccer practice to swim lessons, from band to baseball or basketball games, and to serve as the unofficial referee for endless wrestling matches. She kept her lively household fed, loved, and running with grace. Those who knew her often joked that raising four boys so close in age made her a saint.

She adored sports, especially baseball, and was a diehard Cubs fan. She also had a well-known affection for her dogs. Her flow blue collection was a passion she and Joe shared over the years. However, being a grandmother was Nancy's favorite adventure. She doted on her five granddaughters and one grandson, celebrating their achievements and filling their lives with unconditional love and humor.

Nancy is survived by her loving husband, Joseph R. Padilla; her sons, Peter Padilla and wife Adrienne, Nicholas Padilla, and Michael Padilla and wife Jessica; her grandchildren, Jenna Padilla, Amanda Lunsford, Kortni Ransom and husband Chris, Kelbi Echols and husband Jackson, Maggie Padilla, and Matthew Padilla; and her great‑grandchildren, Logan and Blake Ransom.

Nancy's legacy is one of strength, kindness, and unwavering devotion to her family. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Visitation will be held from 5:00–8:00 p.m., Sunday June 7, 2026, at Klein Funeral Home, 16131 Champion Forest Dr., Spring, TX 77379. Funeral Mass will be Monday, June 8, 2026 10:30 am at Prince of Peace 19222 TX-249, Houston, TX 77070.