Nancy Louise Heard

Early Life and Family:

Nancy was born on January 16, 1941, in Alturas, California, to Donald W. and Margaret Hicks. She graduated from Modoc High School in 1959, and that same year met the love of her life, Robert "Bob" Heard. After several years of dating, they were married on November 12, 1961, in Alturas. Together they built a beautiful life and family, welcoming their first daughter, Janice, in 1963, followed by their daughter Karen in 1965. Nancy began her professional career with Bank of America before she and Bob purchased a local plumbing business, establishing Heard Plumbing. Together they faithfully served the people of Modoc County for more than 50 years. Their entrepreneurial spirit led them to build and operate several successful local businesses over the years, including Modoc Well Drilling, Stage Stop Pizza Parlor, California Market, and Modoc Steel. Many of these businesses operated simultaneously, and Nancy was the steady force behind them all. With remarkable

organization, dedication, and quiet determination, she kept each business running smoothly while working side by side with Bob throughout their marriage.

Personal Interests And Legacy: More than any accomplishment, Nancy's greatest pride was her family. She was the heart of her home, a woman of unwavering strength, wisdom, kindness, compassion, and grace. Whether someone needed a listening ear, thoughtful advice, or simply a comforting presence, Nancy always welcomed them with an open heart. Her calm nature, intuitive wisdom, and genuine love made her a trusted source of guidance for family and friends alike.

Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought immeasurable joy to her life. She treasured every opportunity to spend time with them, listening to their stories, celebrating their accomplishments, and sharing in their adventures.

Nancy also loved opening her home to family and friends. Her gatherings became treasured traditions, where laughter was plentiful and everyone knew they were in for some of the best home cooking in Modoc County. Her hospitality made every guest feel like family. An avid outdoorswoman, Nancy found happiness fishing, camping, hunting, and searching for unique rocks with those she loved. Her passion for conservation led her to serve for many years as President of the local Ducks Unlimited chapter, where she helped raise thousands of dollars to protect and restore the wetlands of Modoc County. When she wasn't outdoors, Nancy enjoyed reading novels, arts and crafts, decorating her home, watching classic and Hallmark movies and game shows, and following Rodeos and Bull Riding. In fact, she loved watching bull riding so much, she and Bob bought a Bucking Bull called Modoc Mad! She especially loved dressing for every occasion and was known for her impeccable style. Shopping for clothes and shoes was one of her greatest pleasures, and she was always among the best-dressed wherever she went.

Nancy was also a devoted member of Eastern Star and St. Michael's Episcopal Church. Nancy's legacy is one of unwavering love, hard work, generosity, and quiet strength. She built successful businesses, created a warm and welcoming home, and devoted herself wholeheartedly to her family and community. She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Nancy is survived by her beloved husband of 64 years, Robert “Bob” Heard; her daughters, Janice (Brent) Bartram and Karen (Bahram) Kahusi; her grandchildren, Brittney (Bill) Mello, Marlana (Andrew) Larrimore, Robbie (Megan) Bartram, Jahan Kahusi, and Kiana Kahusi; her great-grandchildren, Brenna and Lily Mello, Maggie and Odell Larrimore, and Robert and Henry Bartram; her brother, Paul (Judi) Hicks, and their family, including Pollyanna, Melissa, Emily, and Kimberly; her nieces, Katie (Chris) Gordon and their children Haylee, Alyssa, and Wyatt,

and Tori Carpenter and her children Jimmy, Chrystal, and Colton; her brother-in-law, James (Bobbi) Heard; her nephews, Mike (Sarah) Heard and Kennon (Debbie) Heard and their families; her sister-in-law, Nina Heard; her nieces Linda (Jose) Ruiz and Yvonne Turner and their families; along with many beloved cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Donald W. and Margaret L. Hicks; her sister, Donna M. McPherson; and her brother-in-law, Ronald Heard.

Service Details

A celebration of Nancy's life will be held on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at the Elks Hall in Alturas, California. Following the service, family and friends are warmly invited to remain for a barbecue and potluck luncheon as they gather to celebrate a life so well lived