Steve Webb
Nancy Bea Hefley, the beloved organist who brought joy to generations of Dodgers fans with her spirited tunes at Chavez Ravine, has passed away. For 28 seasons, from 1988 until her retirement in 2015, Hefley’s music was a cherished part of the game day experience at Dodger Stadium.
A San Pedro native, Hefley was known not just for her musical talent but also for her warmth and sense of humor, which shone through in her clever song choices. One memorable example from her debut season was her decision to play “Master of the House” from Les Misérables when pitcher and musical theater fan Orel Hershiser took the mound — a season that ended with the Dodgers winning the 1988 World Series and Hershiser earning a Cy Young Award.
Although she wasn’t initially a baseball fan, Hefley grew to love the ballpark atmosphere, thanks in part to her husband Bill’s lifelong love of the Dodgers and encouragement from family friend and former Dodgers pitcher Tommy John. She landed the job after auditioning on Valentine’s Day 1988 during an exhibition game between the Dodgers and USC.
Before joining the Dodgers, Hefley had already been sharing her music for decades, playing the organ at Bellflower Baptist Church for more than 55 years — the same church where she met her husband, Bill. Coincidentally, Bill also helped build Dodger Stadium in 1962 as a member of the construction crew.
Hefley’s tenure continued a tradition of great Dodger Stadium organists. She succeeded Helen Dell and became only the second person in 45 seasons to hold the post. Her musical contributions made her a treasured figure among fans and players alike.
“Nancy Bea has been a very dedicated Dodger employee, who has entertained our fans for many years,” said Lon Rosen, the Dodgers’ executive vice president and chief marketing officer, at the time of her retirement. “We wish Nancy Bea and Bill well in their plans for retirement, and we’re looking forward to her coming back for special performances at Dodger Stadium.”
After commuting from her home in Silver Springs, Nevada for many seasons — even renting a second residence in Los Angeles — Hefley and her husband decided in 2015 that it was time to step back and enjoy a quieter life.
“I have had a wonderful time playing for the Dodgers and their fans,” she said in her farewell announcement. “The Dodgers have told me I can come back and make guest appearances and I greatly appreciate this gesture.”
After her retirement, the Dodger Stadium organ was entrusted to Dieter Ruehle, who had been filling in for her since 2013.
With her passing, Dodgers fans say goodbye to a true original — a woman whose music became the soundtrack of countless unforgettable moments at the ballpark. The team and the fans extend heartfelt condolences to the Hefley family and deep gratitude for Nancy Bea’s enduring legacy.
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