Nancy Rathbun Scott, a long-time and deeply beloved resident of Northern Virginia, passed away peacefully on June 10, 2026, at the age of 84. Born on December 26, 1941, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, she was the cherished daughter of the late Robert Howard Rathbun and Dorothy Anne Bickford. Nancy lived a life defined by independent grace, creative brilliance, compassion for all, a mission for social justice, and an enduring devotion to her family and community.

As the daughter of a Navy officer and later the wife of her first husband, Henry Oshiro, who served in the United States Air Force, Nancy spent her early chapters traveling the world. Crucial to her journey were the four years she lived in Japan as a teenager and young adult. This formative time sparked a lifelong reverence for Japanese culture and a deep passion for Eastern spirituality that beautifully colored her perspective forever after. These global experiences fostered in Nancy a rare, unconditional acceptance of everyone she met. She was blessed to share two meaningful chapters of marriage in her life: first to Henry Oshiro, with whom she welcomed her son Michael; and later to Randall Scott, with whom she welcomed her daughter Jennifer.

Professionally and personally, Nancy was an exceptionally gifted artist—an astounding graphic designer, a talented painter, and a brilliant writer who used her many mediums to connect and inspire. She authored numerous books, shared her insights as a columnist for USA Today, and lent her visionary design eye as the sole creator of graphic newsletters for various non-profit organizations. She won many industry-wide awards and was highly active in both professional and political (social justice-oriented) organizations.

Throughout Nancy's vibrant career and her time in prior homes, she gathered a wide circle of cherished, lifelong friends. She had a unique gift for noticing every person in a room, always making a deliberate effort to truly connect with them. Whether sharing a quick joke, writing a poignant piece, or offering a kind word, she looked for ways to lift others' spirits and loved nothing more than sharing a good laugh or profound insight.

Nancy had a full and varied circle of brilliant, creative, empathetic, and supportive friends. She spent hours and hours each week, for most of her life, either visiting with or talking to close friends.

Nancy’s profound reverence for life was also reflected in her choices; she was a dedicated vegetarian/pescatarian and a deep animal lover who possessed an innate empathy for all creatures. Nancy had animal companions by her side for nearly her entire life. In her later years, she found her perfect haven in her West Village of Shirlington condominium, where she was surrounded by wonderful friends and neighbors who loved her Mac, her gorgeous red Maine Coon cat. Mac, Nancy's beloved constant companion, was known and adored by everyone in the complex. Nancy's absolute favorite pastime was taking her daily walks (often with Mac in her later years), sitting on her patio with friends, and striking up conversations with everyone—including pets—who passed by.

Above all, Nancy’s heart belonged to her family. She shared a close bond with her daughter, Jennifer, and was a foundational pillar in Jen’s family after moving closer to help raise Jen's oldest four children. Nan also found immense joy in the simple rhythms of family life—the frequent visits, shared stories, special routines, backyard conversations, and home-cooked meals shared with her family. She loved keeping in touch with her West Coast and Hawaiian family members. She leaves behind a legacy of resilience, love, deep personal relationships, artistic passion, and quiet dignity that will continue to inspire her family and community for generations.

Nancy was the beloved matriarch of a large and vibrant family. She is survived by her son, Michael Henry Oshiro (Dorcey); her daughter, Jennifer Jane Rahn (Eric); and her sister, Betsy Jane Furlong. Nan was the proud grandmother of ten grandchildren: Bret (Liloa), Miley, Ashley, Leila, Addison, Henry, Juliette, Barrett, Holden, and William. She is also survived by her five cherished great-grandchildren: Lou, Christian, Koko, Hannah, and Ioane; her nieces, Erin (Jake) and Katie; and her nephew, Brian (Lisa). Nancy was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Dorothy, and her older brother, Michael "Mike" Rathbun, whom she absolutely adored and who passed away during their young adulthood.

The family will honor Nancy’s legacy and celebrate her life with a small, private gathering.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to the friends, neighbors, and community members who offered kindness, comfort, and support.