SMU announces the passing of Nancy McMillan Dedman ’50, a Dallas civic leader, philanthropist and longtime supporter of the University. She died on Oct. 8 at the age of 97.
A graduate of SMU and a consistent supporter of higher education, Dedman and her family have played a significant role in shaping the University for more than 75 years. Through The Dedman Foundation, established by Nancy Dedman and her late husband, Robert H. Dedman, Sr. ’53, the family has provided sustained support for key academic programs, student scholarships, faculty initiatives and facility development.
Major contributions include the endowment of the Dedman College of Humanities and Sciences in 1981 and the Dedman School of Law in 2001. The family has also supported a broad range of University initiatives in areas such as research, athletics, and student success.
“Nancy Dedman’s generosity and vision have left an indelible mark on SMU, strengthening our University, enriching our campus and uplifting our broader community,” said President Jay Hartzell.
Dedman held several leadership roles at SMU, including service on the Dedman College Executive Board, the Development and External Affairs Trustee Standing Committee, and the Tate Lecture Series Board. She received the University’s Distinguished Alumni Award, the SMU Mustang Award, and in 2025, the inaugural Dedman Leadership Award from the Dedman School of Law.
In addition to her contributions to SMU, Dedman supported organizations across Dallas in the areas of healthcare, the arts, and social services. She served on boards including the Dallas Museum of Art, the Texas Ballet Theater, Shelter Ministries of Dallas, and The Salvation Army. Her community service was recognized with numerous awards, including the Annette G. Strauss Humanitarian Award and the Flora Award from the Dallas Horticulture Center.
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She is survived by her son, Robert H. Dedman, Jr. ’80, ’84, and his wife, Rachael Redeker Dedman ’96; her daughter, Patricia “Patty” Dedman Nail ’81, and her husband, W. Bobby Nail, Jr.; and five grandchildren.
A Celebration of Life service will be held on Thursday, Oct. 16, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. at Highland Park United Methodist Church. A reception will follow at the SMU Meadows Museum.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Crystal Charity Ball, the UTSW O’Donnell Brain Institute, or the SMU North Dallas High School Scholars program.
The family’s obituary is available here.
