Nancy Rae DeCaprio

Nancy Rae DeCaprio, 71, passed away peacefully on December 9, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Born on September 13, 1954, in Queens, New York, Nancy entered the world with a natural flair for fashion, design, and all things beautiful. From an early age, her creativity was undeniable. She pursued her passion at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), where she majored in design and refined the artistic eye that would shape her life and career. Nancy began her professional journey cutting patterns for clothing designers, later working her way into leadership roles at major department stores, including Macy’s. She had a special love for designing and merchandising exquisite store windows, turning everyday spaces into artful displays that captivated countless passersby. The beloved daughter of Anthony and Catherine DeCaprio and cherished sister of Tony DeCaprio, Nancy built a life defined by generosity, resilience, and a profound love for people. With her husband, James Waseloff, as her unwavering support and constant partner, she embraced each season of life with grace, strength, and steadfast devotion. Nancy was a devoted mother to Dana Clapp and loving mother-in-law to Dwight Clapp, and she treasured her role as “Nanny” to her granddaughter, Addison Clapp, who brought immeasurable joy to her world. The bond between Nancy, Dana, and Addison was deep and extraordinary—three generations connected through love, creativity, and shared purpose. For more than 36 years, Nancy poured her artistic vision into her beloved local business, transforming it into a gathering place where the community celebrated milestones, shared stories, and found comfort. Nancy mentored countless young women through employment at her beautiful shop. Everyone who learned from her carries a part of her in everything they create. She helped raise up many daughters and it was a constant joy in her life. Her store was more than a shop, it was an expression of Nancy’s heart, creativity, and her gift for bringing beauty into the lives of others. Nancy’s generosity reached far beyond her storefront. She supported countless nonprofit organizations with donations, auction items, door prizes, and by hosting events in her welcoming gift store. She gave without hesitation and with genuine joy. Local charities, schools, arts programs, cancer support groups, and civic organizations all benefited from her boundless kindness. In a deeply poignant twist, Nancy was a longtime supporter of cancer outreach efforts, the very cause that would later touch her own life. Even during her illness, she continued to uplift, give, and radiate strength. Family was the center of Nancy’s world. Her relationship with her husband James was a testimony to true partnership and devotion. Her treasured bond with her granddaughter Addison filled her with pride and joy. Nancy nurtured her dreams, celebrated her achievements, and filled her childhood with warmth and wonder. In her final moments, she was held in the arms of her daughter Dana, reflecting the profound and lifelong connection they shared. Dana will carry forward her mother’s passion, spirit, and artistry, ensuring Nancy’s legacy continues to shine brightly. Nancy DeCaprio’s impact on the greater Corona region, its people, and its nonprofit community cannot be overstated. She touched thousands of lives with her compassion, creativity, and radiant smile. She gave more than she ever received, and she asked for nothing in return. She did it all for the very heART of it. Her spirit will live on in the beautiful friendships she formed, the lives she touched, the community she strengthened, and most of all, in the family she cherished. She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

In Lieu of flowers please continue to shop at NCH Galleries. In Person or online at www.nchgalleries.com. 

Let's keep the lights burning Bright in Nancy's Memory.