Nancy Diane Wampler was born on April 29, 1961 in Fullerton, California to Robert (Bob) and Joyce Wampler. The Wampler clan, including John, Susan (Susie), and Tom, settled on Brown Island and then relocated to Friday Harbor in 1971.

On the island, she developed a love of Arabian horses and became an accomplished equestrian. In 1975 she moved to Bellevue and graduated from Bellevue High School in 1981. She went on to study at Western Washington University, but her love of the island called her back home.

In 1988 she married Lucas Melborne and together they had a daughter. In 2007 she moved to Mount Vernon and after the passing of her partner Kelly Nash she spent a year in Kauai before returning back to San Juan Island. Her passions included horses, roses, her grandchildren, and the island community. She was instrumental in organizing the 2000 class reunion for Friday Harbor High School. She was an avid gardener and a good friend to many.

Nancy passed away unexpectedly on April 11, 2024. She is survived by her brothers John and Tom Wampler, sister Susie Wampler-Bryant, nieces Annie and Caroline Wampler-Bryant, daughter Tara Melborne and grandchildren Orion and Lyra Georges. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider a donation to the American Legion Auxiliary. A celebration of life will be held at Jackson’s Beach Pavilion on Aug. 4 from 1-3 p.m.