Dodgers Mourn Loss of Beloved Organist Nancy Bea Hefley at 89

LOS ANGELES, CA — The Los Angeles Dodgers are mourning the death of longtime Dodger Stadium organist Nancy Bea Hefley, who passed away on Saturday at the age of 89, as announced by her son Mark via social media.

Hefley served as the team’s live organist for nearly 30 years, from 1988 until her retirement in October 2015. Known for her vibrant personality and humor, she played her final tune at Dodger Stadium at the conclusion of the 2015 season, leaving a legacy that resonated with fans.

Born in San Pedro, California, Hefley was not initially an avid baseball fan. Her journey to becoming the Dodgers’ organist began thanks to her husband, Bill, who was a longtime supporter of the team, and her friendship with former Dodgers pitcher Tommy John. Hefley recounted, “At first I didn’t think I’d want to sit at a baseball game every night. I didn’t know it was going to be so much fun.”

Hefley took over the role from Helen Dell, who had served for 17 years. After auditioning during an exhibition game on Valentine’s Day in 1988, Hefley proved her talent by outshining several other candidates for the position. “I’ve been here ever since,” Hefley remarked during a 2015 interview. “They haven’t been able to get rid of me!”

During her tenure, Hefley became a fixture at Dodger Stadium, where her music enhanced the game-day experience for fans. One of her notable traditions involved playing “Master of the House” from the musical *Les Misérables* whenever Orel Hershiser took the mound, coinciding with his historic Cy Young Award-winning season and the Dodgers’ World Series victory that year.

Outside of baseball, Hefley performed at Bellflower Baptist Church for over 55 years, where she met her husband Bill, who was one of the construction workers who helped build Dodger Stadium in 1962. Before joining the Dodgers, she also served as a substitute organist for the Los Angeles Angels.

As the decades passed, Hefley witnessed changes to the role of organists in baseball, often noting a trend toward less traditional music in favor of louder, contemporary sounds. “I think a lot of the clubs have done this; they want to reach a younger crowd. They think the young (people) like loud, but I’ve got a lot of young people telling me they wish I were playing right now,” Hefley said in a 2004 interview.

Despite challenges, including changes in her playing time, Hefley remained a beloved figure in the organization. The Dodgers expressed their condolences, stating, “The Dodgers are saddened by the passing of longtime Dodger Stadium organist Nancy Bea Hefley, who delighted millions of fans for nearly 30 years.”

In a poignant moment, upon announcing her retirement, Hefley received a heartfelt tribute from Dodgers pitcher-turned-broadcaster Orel Hershiser, underscoring her significant impact on the franchise. Hefley, with her deep knowledge of music and charming wit, became an integral part of the Dodgers’ history, etching her name in the hearts of fans and players alike.