It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Orange Lutheran’s beloved matriarch, Miss Nancy Paul, on Wednesday, April 22, 2026. “Miss Paul,” as she was affectionately known by the Lancer Family, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, wisdom, and faithful service.

A native of Orange, California, Nancy was born on May 17, 1939. Her journey in faith and education began early. She attended St. John’s Lutheran Church from 1945 to 1953, graduated from Orange High School in 1957, and earned her bachelor’s degree from Stanford University in 1961. That same year, she began what would become a distinguished 50-year career in Lutheran education.

Nancy started her teaching career at Redeemer Lutheran Church and School in Redwood City, just a few miles from her alma mater. After two years, she returned to Orange and joined the faculty at St. John’s Lutheran School, where she taught and coached for ten years. While she briefly served as a first-grade teacher, most of her time at St. John’s was devoted to middle school students, particularly those in seventh and eighth grade.

In 1975, Nancy joined the faculty of the newly founded Lutheran High School of Orange County, now known as Orange Lutheran High School. There, she became a foundational figure in both academics and athletics. In the classroom, she taught English and math and served as department chair for both English and Physical Education. Her influence extended across campus, as she embraced numerous leadership roles and served with distinction.

Nancy was a pioneering force in athletics. She was the head softball coach from 1975 to 1987, and she coached junior varsity girls' volleyball and basketball during those early years. In 1987, she established the school’s tennis program and coached both junior varsity and varsity teams until 1995. She also served as Athletic Director and was recognized twice as CIF Athletic Director of the Year, in 1980 and 1986.

Known for her eloquent pre-game prayers and tireless dedication to Lancer sports, Nancy attended more than 1,400 athletic contests. She kept stats for football and basketball from the school’s earliest days and could often recall details of opponents, scores, and players with remarkable accuracy. In recognition of her impact, Orange Lutheran’s primary basketball court was named in her honor in 2011. Even after she stepped back from classroom instruction, she continued to serve Orange Lutheran as its Historian until her retirement in 2018.

Nancy was a devoted sister, sister-in-law, aunt, and great-aunt. She was the eldest of four siblings. She is survived by her sister, Sue, her brothers-in-law, Jack and Steve, and her sister-in-law, Shannon. She was preceded in death by her brother, Don, and sister, Carolyn. She cherished her extended family and delighted in spending time with her nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews.

Beloved by students, alumni, and colleagues alike, Miss Paul shaped the culture and spirit of Orange Lutheran with her unwavering faith, servant heart, and deep love for education. Her legacy lives on through the Nancy Paul Teaching Endowment Fund, which provides financial support for Lancers who aspire to become educators. In honor of Miss Paul’s lasting influence, gifts to the endowment may be made at lhsoc.org/nancypaul.