Nancy J. Shiffler Opp

Nancy Jean Shiffler Opp of Hudson, MA, passed away unexpectedly on November 13, 2025, at the age of 71 years old.

Nancy was born on September 15, 1954, in Pittsburgh, PA, to Richard Welty Shiffler and Olive Helms Shiffler (née Griffith). As the youngest of three children, she grew up revering her older brothers Rick and John. When Nancy was five years old, her family moved to Briarcliff Manor, NY. Nancy showed a passion for the arts from an early age and went on to study fashion design at the University of Cincinnati, graduating in 1977. In college, Nancy met Gregory Lynn Opp, an avid runner and aspiring computer engineer, which sparked a more than 50-year bond. Nancy and Gregory wed in 1978 in Sandusky, OH, and shortly thereafter settled in Hudson where they raised their three sons Daniel, Thomas, and David.

In Hudson, Nancy continued her artistic pursuits while helping to cultivate and grow the local art scene through the Arts Alliance. She taught art to students of all ages and abilities, most recently having taught sewing for adults at Assabet After Dark in Marlborough and fashion drawing for local youth. She previously taught middle school art at St. Michael’s School in Hudson. For many years, she kept an art studio in downtown Hudson. Her art was featured in juried and non-juried exhibits and her hand-painted silk scarves and wraps could be found at many local markets and boutiques. Nancy also worked at the Assabet Valley Chamber of Commerce.

Nancy adored animals and provided a loving home to 5 dogs and 14 cats. She was a dedicated volunteer with Cat Rescue of Marlborough and Hudson (CaRMaH). She loved to travel and had a keen eye for off-the-beaten-path art museums and exhibits. She cherished trips to New York City, France, Hong Kong, and the British Isles. She and Gregory also shared a passion for music and frequently attended concerts.

She is survived by her husband Gregory Opp; her three sons Daniel, Thomas, and David Opp; her brother Rick Shiffler and partner Kris Overand; and her sister-in-law Karen Shiffler. She is further survived by her daughters-in-law Jesse Mattleman and Keri Opp, and five grandchildren: Milo (5), Rakel (4), Margaret (4), Coby (2), and Nolan (2). She also leaves her nephew Eric Shiffler; her niece Katie Brown and husband Jim Brown, and grandniece Penelope and grandnephew Archer. She was predeceased by her brother John Shiffler and her parents.

A virtual memorial service will be held on December 6, 2025, with a celebration of life to follow in 2026. In lieu of flowers, please direct donations to the Armory on the Assabet (https://www.armoryontheassabet.org).