Nancy Sue McKinnon

Nancy McKinnon, 83, passed away on October 17, 2025, in Bellingham, Washington. Nancy lived a life marked by creativity, professional excellence, and a deep devotion to her family and friends.

She married her high school sweetheart, Doug McKinnon, and raised two daughters in Bellingham. Nancy joined the promotions department at The Bellingham Herald in 1978, and then took a job as the marketing director at The Idaho Statesman in Boise in 1983. She and Doug spent 20 years in Boise, working hard, playing a lot of golf, and hosting dinner parties with the wonderful friends they made there.

Nancy built a distinguished career. Her innovative spirit and keen understanding of audience engagement led to the creation of the Herald’s award-winning campaign, "It's Even Better on Saturday Morning”. She also was instrumental in the success of the Boise River Festival and served on many professional boards and community organizations.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Nancy was known for her vibrant creativity, which she expressed through her love of cooking and her passion for art. Whether crafting a memorable meal, painting, cartooning, or coming up with slogans or campaigns, she brought enthusiasm to everything she did.

She and Doug returned to Bellingham after their retirement, and they reconnected with long-time friends from the BHS Class of ‘60 and others. Their friendships meant the world to them.

Nancy is survived by her daughters, Mary Galley (Kevin) and Jennifer Rick (Brian); grandchildren, Taylor, Megan, Camille, Anya, and Finley; and a great-grandchild. She also leaves behind her sisters, Carol Kruckeberg (Walt) and Jane Palmer (Warren Dillon); sister-in-law, Kaye Palmer; and her brother-in-law, Greg McKinnon (Cate). She was preceded in death by her husband, Doug, and her brother, Bill Palmer.

Nancy’s life was a testament to the power of creativity and tenacity. Her memory will continue to inspire and comfort those who knew her.

A Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, November 6, 2025, at 2:00 PM Westford Funeral Home (1301 Broadway, Bellingham). A reception will follow at Westford’s Broadway Hall.