Nancy “Sam” (Blackburn) Dale, 93, of Bagy Wrinkle Cove, Warren, died peacefully on March 16, 2026, at her home, surrounded by her loving family. She was the beloved wife of the late Richard “Dick” Dale.
Born in Glen Ridge, New Jersey, she was the daughter of the late James and Harriett (Nash) Blackburn. Sam lived in Warren for the past 20 years, previously residing in Barrington, Rhode Island, for 26 years.Sam and Dick had a lifelong love affair skiing at Mad River Glen, Vermont.
She was a proud graduate of Cornell University, Class of 1954, where she earned her bachelor’s degree. She was a member of the Barrington Congregational Church and the Rhode Island Country Club.
Sam enjoyed an active and joyful life. She loved golfing, skiing, and playing bridge, and she especially treasured the time she spent with her loving grandchildren.
She is survived by her daughters, Diane Riley and her husband David, Darby Dale and her husband Mark Hussin of Steamboat Springs, Colorado, and Tracy Bancroft and her husband Coe of Glastonbury, Connecticut; and her twelve cherished grandchildren: Alison, Megan, and Will Riley, Brian, Jack, Keegan, Shae, Tatum, and Teague Burger and Dale, Missy and Brady Bancroft. She was the sister of the late Joan Duys.
Her warmth, kindness, vibrant spirit, and infectious smile will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
A memorial service and reception will be held at 2 p.m. on June 20 at the Barrington Congregational Church.
