by Michelle Monkou (then WRW President)

What shocked us about Nancy’s death was the savage way in which she died that abruptly snatched her away. There was no lingering illness for us to prepare ourselves and no one remained to be punished. As a chapter, we have said our goodbyes and will honor her memory and spirit in a variety of ways, including a Nancy Richards-Akers annual award for the published author who has contributed the most in the development of the unpublished authors.

On the national level, Avon publishers paid tribute to Nancy at the national conference. The reception took place at the Hyatt Regency on Thursday, July 29, 1999. Avon extended an open invitation to come and share in the memories and also provide an opportunity to bring closure. The program opened with Avon editors and Nancy’s agent describing Nancy’s sweet, fun-loving spirit. There was no formal agenda and anyone could share their thoughts.

Joan Schalhafer, Vice President and Director of Publicity emceed. Carrie Feron, Executive Editor read Karen Kay’s (who was unable to attend) words. Lyssa Keusch, Senior Editor and Nancy’s editor, shared her thoughts. Helen Breitwiser was Nancy agent and spoke about how their relationship developed into a friendship. Marie Elena Martinez, Avon Publicist was responsible for all the logistical arrangement. Thank you for a wonderful moment.

WRW had strong representation and many of its members shared their memories. Anne Marie Rogers donated the memory book for viewing, which is still under construction documenting Nancy’s life. The book will be given to her parents with the hope that the children will some day be able to see their mother’s accomplishments and her other family in the writing world who loved her unconditionally with strong, permanent, healthy friendships. Anne Marie sends her thanks to those who contributed with donations of pictures, articles, and stories.

Bette McNicholas and Karen Smith shared their thoughts and what WRW will do in Nancy’s name. Eileen Charbonneau sang an Irish lullaby that did not leave a dry eye in the room. After which, I spoke about Nancy. On request, I share my words with you:

I can’t talk about memories shared with Nancy as a personal friend or a fellow published author. However, she was a woman. I am a woman. She was a mother. I am a mother. She loved her craft. I love it too. As sisters of the earth, my heart grieves. But in keeping with one of her missions to help unpublished authors, I will make her proud. I will continue to love my craft with a voracious appetite. Peace be with you , Nancy.

The healing has begun and we move forward, a little more aware.