Noah Josiah Nance

With deep sorrow and abiding faith, we announce that Noah Josiah Nance, age 12,  went to be with the Lord on September 25, 2025. His passing was sudden and unexpected, and our hearts are broken as we grieve the loss of our son, brother, and friend.

Noah was born on January 18, 2013 and spent his earliest years in foster care, surrounded by an amazing foster family who advocated tirelessly for him. Though others believed institutional care was his only path, they fought for him to be placed in a big, loving family. Their prayers were answered when Noah came home to us at age three, where he thrived in the center of the joyful chaos he loved so much.

Noah was a warrior. He endured multiple surgeries — from hip surgery to scoliosis correction and, most recently, a full back fusion. Through every challenge, he faced life with toughness, resilience, and a contagious joy.

He had the brightest smile, framed by unforgettable dimples, and a mischievous sense of humor. He loved being right in the middle of things — whether it was noisy family life, his siblings joking around, or his mom telling animated stories. If Tara got worked up while giving a lecture or telling a story Noah thought it was the funniest thing in the world.

Noah’s joys were simple yet deep. He loved laughing with his siblings, listening to music, and spending time with his nurses who became like family. Snuggles were his favorite, and his tender heart always lit up around babies, who could draw out his sweetest smiles. He delighted in being outside, happily soaking up the sunshine and “basking like a little lizard” in the warmth. Noah had a special way of making everyone around him feel seen and loved, and through his life he brought extraordinary people into ours — advocates, surgeons, therapists, and caregivers — all drawn together in helping him live fully and joyfully.

Though Noah never knew the scope of his impact, his life touched countless people. Through his story, our family was able to share love, faith, and hope with a community that rallied around him.

Noah is survived by his loving parents, Nathan and Tara Nance; his brothers Elijah, Aidan, and Abner; his sisters Ryanne, Esme and Abigail. His grandparents David Aus, Lisa McCloud, Hans and Laura Antonsen, Lenard and Debbie Nance. He also leaves behind many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who loved him dearly.

A special thanks to our family, friends, and our church family at Grace Hewitt for surrounding us with love and support. We are especially grateful for friends who have become more like family. Our community has been such a blessing during this time, and we are deeply touched by the kindness shown to us.

Services to celebrate Noah’s life will be held at Grace Waco Church on Friday, October 3, 2025 at 1pm.

Noah’s laughter, dimples, and love will echo in our hearts forever.