Happy heavenly birthday Nancy. I’ve been looking at a text that we exchanged on your birthday in 2020 and it sure brings back memories. Love and miss you much.

Ms. IVY, you were a wonderful teacher to me the years I had you. Always checked on me through highschool. You always viewed my ig stories and liked all my pictures. I wish I can tell you I became a preschool teacher myself. May your kindness and wisdom you shared continue to shine through thows people you impacted.

I miss the open dialogue that we always had. Best wishes to her family.

Happy heavenly birthday, Ms. Ivey. May God continue to watch over your precious spirit as you rest in eternal peace.

Today marks the day of celebration of truly remarkable and sweet soul! Ms. Ivey, the last of the Williams-Soares clan graduated from Korematsu! Your guidance and support has been remembered through lessons learned and humorous stories.
We celebrate your legacy of listening with compassion, advice with spice, and swirls of wisdom.

Happy Birthday!

Happy heavenly birthday Nancy. I think of you so much. I know you and Eric are together so that gives me some peace. Love you.

One year. Missed by so many. Loved

Rest in Heavenly Peace Ms. Ivey. Thank you for supporting me at Korematsu! I always felt welcomed by Ms. Ivey each and every day there. She was a real trailblazer, just like the Jeep Wrangler she drove! She was a true inspiration in my practice of pedagogy! R.I.H.

Happy birthday, Ms. Ivey! We remember you fondly and lovingly on your special day! Thank you for everything especially, the countless hours you spent making the lives of our students, colleagues, friends, and family better. We salute you always. RIP on your birthday, dear friend.

Nancy, we miss your commitment to our students and your personal integrity.

Happy Birthday Nancy.  You are so missed.

I looked at the text that you and I exchanged last year on your birthday. I will treasure that forever. I miss you and love you my friend.

Would love to have seen you on your Birthday. Miss you friend think of you every day and when I see a white jeep

I am so sorry to hear about Nancy passing away. I worked 3 years with her. She was very kind and warm.
Being an educator is a hard vocation, which requires dedication and a willingness to put others before yourself.
Nancy did just that time and time again. May she Rest In Peace. She departed this world too soon.

I can still see Nancy's kind, encouraging smile. I can still hear her voice, curious with compassion and awareness. Whether sharing her latest good read, or ready to hear the latest middle school struggle, or shine on the newest student accomplishment...her nod, her look, her thoughtfulness ran so deep. She showed me over and again how to dig through the surface story and find an opportunity to shift. I loved her laugh and am grateful to have been in her presence to learn so much about caring.

My Dear Sister Nancy,

"Heaven Was Needing A Hero"

I came by today to see you
I just had to let you know
If I knew the last time that I held you was the last time
I'd have held you, and never let go
Oh, it's kept me awake nights, wondering
I lie in the dark, just asking why
I've always been told
You won't be called home
Until it's your time

I guess Heaven was needing a hero
Somebody just like you
Brave enough to stand up
For what you believe
And follow it through
When I try to make it make sense in my mind
The only conclusion I come to
Is Heaven was needing a hero
Like you

I remember the last time I saw you
Oh, you held your head up proud
I laughed inside
When I saw how you were standing out in the crowd
You're such a part of who I am
Now that part will just be void
No matter how much I need you now
Heaven needed you more

'Cause Heaven was needing a hero
Somebody just like you
Brave enough to stand up
For what you believe
And follow it through
When I try to make it make sense in my mind
The only conclusion I come to
Is Heaven was needing a hero
Like you

Yes Heaven was needing a hero
and that's You

Forever Loved,
Your Brother Bobby and Sister-In-Law Sheila

Nancy Ivey was always kind and deeply respectful. As a colleague during her days at El Cerrito High school I always appreciated her warmth and steadfast support of all students. A few years later, after Ms. Ivey transferred over to Korematsu, our son, Joshua, was lucky enough to land there for his Middle School years. This was a time of a lot of transitions, and Ms. Ivey was at every one of his IEP meetings with her compassionate presence. She always took the time to stop to say hi and check in with Joshua when he was pulling his backpack through the halls in between classes, no matter what else was happening. She will be missed. ❤️ Danielle, Dave and Joshua

I don't know much about Ms. Ivey, but her warm and friendly smile always cheers me up. She was one of the best people I know. Rest In Peace, Ms. Ivey.

Thank you for your service and kindness, and taking time to answer our questions. Korematsu has big shoes to fill, and we were lucky to have you.

Nancy, our hearts are broken, you’ve left too soon. You lived your life with purpose, integrity and joyful, enthusiastic LOVE. You will be remembered and cherished by all those you have touched. As the memories flood in from 45 years of friendship I am so sad but I am also so grateful that I got to be a part of your life. LL

I am so sad and shocked. Nancy and I have been friends for over 40 years. We met before children were born, before she became a teacher... I have so many memories.  She was loved by many, will be missed by so many. Words fail. 

I will always remember how purely kind and caring Ms. Ivey was towards her fellow staff, students, and friends. She treated everyone as her friend and family member and was so respectful in her work. Although I only knew her for two years, I felt as if I had known her for much longer. On behalf of everyone, I can say that I was so lucky to have gotten to know her. Whether it was laughing together because I messed up a phrase in the morning announcements, or simply having her pop into a classroom and see what was going on, she will be dearly missed. Thank you, Ms. Ivey, for all of the memories. I know you'll forever be in our hearts.

Nancy ALWAYS had the best interests of students at heart and worked tirelessly for them. I enjoyed working with her, she was an inspiration. May she rest in peace.

My name is Dawit Vasquez-Suomala. I just recently graduated from El Cerrito High School. In the 2 years that I was at KMS, I definitely felt a lot of racial tension from the white teachers and administrators and black students. I never had the chance to really get to know Ms.Ivey for the person she was, I mostly just saw her in the hallways and in the office once in a while. But I had a sense of safely and security from the way she smiled at me and asked me how I was doing and how the day was going.
This was a long time ago but her little kind actions and words really have had an impact on me and I am so saddened by this news.

Rest In Peace, Ms. Ivey

I just came to Korematsu last year to teach, and I barely knew the staff. There was this sweet looking but very confident woman who walked into my class, stayed for 5 or more minutes and then slipped out. Next time she came in, I asked her who she was and she told me, Nancy Ivey, the vice principal. From that moment on, I knew I had found an amazing place to teach. She was an administrator who talked to and listened to students, teachers and parents alike. They broke the mold when Nancy became an administrator and from what I hear about her days teaching at Richmond, she was an absolutely fantastic educator. I feel very blessed to have had the honor of working with such a wonderful and outstanding human being. Nancy, you will be deeply missed.

I was fortunate to see Ms. Ivey at school this month. She asked how I was doing, and I let her know that at times I feel disappointed because I have been struggling to get kids engaged. Like always, she had only kind, supportive words for me. She let me know that she appreciated me as an educator. I wish I had let her know how much I appreciated her as an administrator and educator. Nancy, I will miss you more than you know. Thank you for your kind, caring, calming spirit.

I only met Ms. Ivey once, but everything that I've heard or read about her were present in that one interaction. She was warm and generous with her time. Thoughts are with her family and friends and all at KMS that had the chance to really know her. I am confident that even those of us who didn't have that opportunity were touched by here gifts and blessed by her dedication to KMS. RIP Ms. Ivey.

It has been over a week since we heard the news that a member of the Korematsu family had passed away. As we mourn the loss of our colleague and friend, Nancy Ivey, we also celebrate her wonderful life, commitment, and dedication to the lives of young people that she touched and inspired. Ms. Ivey was the quintessential teacher-friendly and student-friendly administrator. She clearly understood that schools are about the students and that we (educators, administrators, and paraprofessionals) are there to serve them! Ms. Ivey always supported and encouraged my in-class debate activities, lunch clubs, and out-of-school activities. I would look forward to our annual Harmony Walk in Richmond to end homelessness and hunger. Finally, I will always appreciate Ms. Ivey for her unwavering support after my auto/bike accident. Thank you, Ms. Ivey. God bless, you now belong to the ages. Mr. Fulumirani

Nancy you are such a kind, caring and at times humorous soul. May your journey be filled with love.

 Nancy was an inspiration to everyone whoever met her. My favorite memory was when she took an “unwanted” student with special needs into her Leadership Class. By the end of the year, she had nominated him for the RHS Oiler Award. This annual award went to the student who instilled the spirit of being the BEST of the BEST in motivating and inspiring others. He channeled her essence and became one of the class leaders. Eric B and his family will always cherish the honor. This was the result of Nancy opening her door and accepting students on the fringe of the school community.
She inspired all of us to follow her example and show respect to everyone around us. Her humility was a never ending strength.

Ms. Ivey was such an integral part of the Korematsu community. Whenever I needed help with anything, she was always there for me and our students. She was the epitome of cool—I mean seriously, best wheels on campus with her Jeep! Her office always felt so warm and welcoming, just like her. Ms. Ivey’s kind and generous nature will be incredibly missed. Sending love to her family, friends, and all of the WCCUSD community.

Nancy has been my friend for almost forty years. I met her through my late brother when she was pregnant with Joharie. She was part of my Oakland family. She was brilliant, funny, and very caring. I remember when she first went into teaching, her creativity, her rapport with her students , and her professionalism. Whenever I visited the bay area, Nancy, Vickie, and I and her daughter and grandkids would go out to dinner either to a Chinese or Mexican restaurant and catch up on all the going ons in our respective families. Her leaving us for that great school in the sky leaves a void in our hearts, but the unselfish, generous, and joyous life that she lived enriched us all. I shall never forget her. Her spirit and her legacy live on. She left the world a better place for so many of us.
As a tribute, I'm borrowing (and modifying) a poem from Langston Hughes:

“I loved my friend
(S)He went away from me
There's nothing more to say
The poem ends,
Soft as it began-
I loved my friend.”

"A man is loved not for how tall he stands but for how often he bends to help, comfort, and teach."
Nancy Ivey being the true personification of unconditional love, respectful behavior, thoughtful positive approach, humble attitude, and deep understanding was able to rule over the hearts of everyone at Korematsu. Her cheerful smiling face was a great inspiration for many of us. Miss Ivey was so dedicated to her work that i did never see her getting tired or complaining about anything even during the heaviest schedules. She was committed to give her best inspite of all odds. Serenity of her personality taught me how to stay calm during a chaos. She will be deeply missed for her selfless, rocking support to all of us.
Our school will never be the same without you Ms Ivey.

There are so many wonderful things to say about Ms. Ivey. 1. Beautiful soul, graceful and had an amazing smile. 2. She listened to each one of my children 3. She was always available when we needed to ask questions or to make things right. She will be truly missed. Forever in our ♥️! Sean, Tristan, Sophia, Francesca, Kendra

I am in disbelieve as not to long ago she liked one of my pictures in social media. Mrs. Ivy was one of my best teachers in Richmond highschool. She was so sweet, kind, caring, understanding, comfortable and all. I had her for 2 years in highschool, and throughout highschool till now she always remembered me and always asked how I was doing. She was a sweet person who I will never forget. She helped alot of students, and her words of encouragement she had gave me I've always remembered till this date. May her precious self be at peace and my condolences to all her family and friends. You will forever be missed.

One of my favorite teachers. Such a sweet soul, she will definitely be missed. I wish I had held her a little tighter the last time I saw her. Love you ❤️

Nancy, you were truly cared about and respected. You were a great person to work for and with. You made everyone a better person with whom you came into contact with. You had great empathy for everyone. You showed empathy to me when I needed it and was always there to help students and staff. I know that I am a better person for knowing you. Nancy, you will be missed more than words can express.  With a heavy heart, admiration, and respect, we will all miss you.

Nancy was a beautiful expression of strength and compassion not only for her students but also teachers she mentored. She listened and led by example and taught me to look beyond my limitations as a teacher and to be enriched by my own students. Thank you, Nancy. 

I had the chance to meet Nancy when she was a teacher and then an administrator at Richmond High. There are schools that need adults who do not see their job as just a paycheck, or as a stepping stone to better paid duties. They need adults who care for the students and the community: people who are going to make a difference in the lives of the students, a kid at a time. Richmond High is one of these schools and Nancy was one of these adults. She was always outgoing and smiling, welcoming when I first started at the school. I am certainly not the only one saying this on here, but I want her family to know that she reached hundreds, probably thousands of kids, teachers and staff in her career and that she lives on in their minds and in their hearts. Much love.

Nancy was a great teacher. So many of us learned to be better administrators following her actions. The first thing she would do when dealing with a disciplinary situation was to ask the student in question, "How are YOU doing?" Not to scold, not to correct, not even to begin the investigation, but a simple but totally human query that let the kid know that the first thing that needed to be checked on was the student right here in front of you. I carry Nancy's example with me to this day. But the modesty, the courage and the capacity to be a great teammate, those are things to still aspire to be. Nancy has left a legacy of good deeds and actions that will carry past my generation to those of our students, which means that her works live on. It's a better world because of Nancy

Nancy Ivey was pure gold. Loved her very much and appreciated her love and empathy for students. She was always there for so many of us when we were new teachers at RHS finding our way, and later I she was just as supportive when I became an administrator. She will be sorely missed but remembered as a champion for our community. Love you Ms. Ivey

When I first came to Richmond High Nancy made me feel welcome and valued and I'll always remember her kindness and warmth. It's hard to believe she is gone.

I just spoke with Nancy a few days ago and am in disbelief at this incredible loss. Nancy was so kind and devoted to her family and the students and staff at Korematsu. She was a wonderful advocate for all. She is greatly missed.

I will miss your smile and the kindness you showed me, for welcoming me and supporting me when I came to Portola as a Counselor. Your understanding and willingness to share with parents, teachers, and students of how I did my job were helpful to me in gaining respect in the overall community.

The students will miss your tireless advocacy and understanding. You have been a positive influence on all students, the high achievers as well as those who needed more guidance.

I especially remember the philosophical educational conversations we had. You listened to me. Even though we disagreed on some issues, it never interfered with our working together for the benefit of the students. Never any grudges. That demonstrated to me your strength of character and conviction and love of what you did every day.

Wow, I can't believe it. I worked with Ms. Ivey just a few weeks ago in Ms. Cummings' class. She was always very supportive of me at Korematsu in all of the time I worked as a substitute-teacher there. Ms. Ivey had a very good demeanor with the students and was well-liked by them. I am saddened and shocked to receive this news today. I will miss this wonderful lady, parking behind her Wrangler, and running hurriedly to classes to happily substitute at at Korematsu in the old neighborhood where I played little league. Rest In Peace.

Life touches your heart, ruffles your heart and tears can ease our angst .
  Lore at school provided facts , each and every student that went in her office no matter what the situation she started the dialogue off with how are you doing . Experienced it as a teacher who didn’t turn his roll sheets in or grades in on time .
    Funny I forced her into a bad place , one of her staff wasn’t doing the right thing , I could tell I wasn’t gaining her respect .
 Years ago there was a boys basketball game at EL Cerrito I went to her to say hello .
  I hadn’t spoken to her in years and had heard she had been great . When I went To shake her hand she told said aye Collins your the real deal .
 No Miss Ivey your the real deal thank you for acknowledging I had gotten better !!!!!!!!!!!!


Peace be with you

Nancy had an incredible heart of gold and was a powerful student advocate. A woman of great strength and perseverance. I learned many valuable skills and lessons through Nancy. She made me a better educator - and a better person, something that everyone who knew her can undoubtedly say.

I'll always remember Mrs. Ivey as inspirational, passionate, energetic, and humble. She inspired me to become a teacher and I'm sure she inspired countless others to follow their purpose. Although she leaves behind a huge void, she did more than enough to make sure her family, friends, students, and colleagues are prepared to fill it. Mrs. Ivey, Thank You.

Nancy always brought joy and smiles into any room. Always there to fight for you in your corner and to support you. It was a real treat to be spoiled by such an incredible human being. Thank you Nancy for being there for us at Korematsu. You will be missed.

You are one of the best most caring people I’ve ever known. You would do anything for anyone. All I can hope is some of that rubbed off on me. Bless everything about you. Korematsu will not be the same.