Nancy Deale Greene was much more than the wife of a Hollywood icon. Born on May 23, 1933, in Long Island, New York, she led an artist’s life infused with activism and intellect. From her early days on stage to her influential work in political advocacy, Nancy showed resilience, compassion, and an unwavering dedication to causes greater than herself.
Early Life and Artistic Pursuits
Nancy was raised in Long Island and Toronto, and her formative years were steeped in cultural richness. Her journey into the world of acting began in the late 1950s with roles in productions like Shadows (1958) and guest appearances on Bonanza. Her passion for the arts extended beyond acting, she was also a successful poet and painter who often gifted her oil portraits to friends and colleagues, including the cast of Bonanza.
A Serendipitous Meeting with Lorne Greene
Nancy’s life changed when she crossed paths with Lorne Greene, the Canadian actor renowned for his role as Ben Cartwright on Bonanza. Their relationship blossomed both on and off the screen, and they eventually married on December 17, 1961. Together, they had a daughter, Gillian Danie Greene, who would later marry filmmaker Sam Raimi.
Stepping Away from the Spotlight
Despite her burgeoning acting career, Nancy stepped away from Hollywood to focus on her family. She and Lome felt maintaining dual careers in show business would strain their marriage. This choice demonstrated Nancy’s commitment to her personal values and the importance she placed on nurturing her family life.
A Passion for Political Advocacy
Nancy had interests beyond the arts. She was deeply into political activism, especially in foreign policy and women’s rights. She co-founded the National Women’s Political Caucus in Los Angeles and served as an advisor to Senators Hubert Hughey and Henry Jackson. By the mid-1970s, she established the Women’s Institute of international Relations to educate and empower women in the realm of International policy.
Embracing Lifelong Learning
Nancy was a proponent of continuous education. At UCLA, she studied Russian and Chinese, enhancing her capabilities as a foreign policy consultant. Her linguistic skills and cultural insights made her a great asset in political circles, where she worked to bridge gaps and build understanding on complex international issues.
Life after Lorne Greene
After Lorne Greene’s passing in 1987, Nancy relocated to Incline Village, Nevada. There, she continued her work in political consulting, writing, and public speaking. She remained active in her advocacy efforts, focusing on civil defense and arms control, and served as vice president of the American Civil Defense Association.
Legacy and Influence
Nancy Deale Greene passed away on March 2, 2004, following a battle with cancer. She left behind a legacy that went beyond her roles in entertainment and politics. Her life’s work continues to inspire, especially through her daughter Gillian and grandson Lorne Raimi, who have both pursued careers in the creative arts, carrying forward Nancy’s dedication and passion.