Obituary: Elizabeth Ann Nass, Lifelong Aquidneck Island Resident, Dies at 72

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Elizabeth Ann Nass, a 72-year-old lifelong resident of Aquidneck Island in Rhode Island, passed away peacefully at her home in Portsmouth. Born in Newport in 1953, Nass was the daughter of the late Robert W. Nass and Barbara (Whitford) Nass. She is survived by her son James R. Nass, brother Robert W. Nass Jr., and sister Susan (Nass) Calhoun.

Why it matters

Nass' passing marks the end of an era for a longtime Newport family with deep roots in the community. As a lifelong resident of Aquidneck Island, Nass embodied the island's maritime heritage through her love of sailing and involvement in America's Cup activities.

The details

Elizabeth Ann Nass grew up in Newport, attending St. Mary's School and graduating from St. Catherine's Academy. She later received a BA from Humboldt State University in California. Nass' earlier hobbies included sailing, assisting with J boat racing, and America's Cup preparation activities, during which she worked for Newport Offshore. In her later years, she enjoyed weaving, needlework, and gardening.

• Elizabeth Ann Nass was born on November 26, 1953 in Newport, Rhode Island.
• Nass passed away peacefully at her home in Portsmouth, Rhode Island on an unspecified date.