Florence Nash was an American actress and author who gained recognition during the early 20th century. She was born on October 2, 1888, in Troy, New York, to James H. Ryan, a lawyer, and Ellen Frances McNamara. After her father passed away, her mother remarried Philip F. Nash, a vaudeville booking executive, and Florence adopted his surname. 

She grew up in a family that valued the arts, which influenced her career path. She attended the Convent of St. Anne in Montreal, Canada, and later studied at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City.

Florence Nash began her acting career in 1907 with a role in the play "The Boys of Company B." She quickly became a prominent figure in theater, known for her comedic timing and engaging performances. Her breakthrough came in 1912 with the play "Within the Law," where she played Aggie Lynch.

She continued to perform in Broadway productions such as "The Mirage," "Merton of the Movies," and "A Lady's Virtue." In addition to her stage work, she ventured into vaudeville, where she showcased her talent as a comedienne.

In the 1930s, she transitioned to Hollywood and appeared in a few films. Her most notable role was as Nancy Blake in the 1939 film "The Women," which remains a classic. She also acted in "Springtime" and "It's a Great Life." Despite her limited filmography, her performances were well-received, and she left a lasting impression on audiences.

Florence Nash was also an accomplished writer. In 1918, she published a book of poetry titled "June Dusk and Other Poems," which reflected her literary talent and creative spirit. Her writing added another dimension to her artistic career and showcased her versatility.

She never married and did not have children. She was deeply dedicated to her work and maintained a close relationship with her sister, Mary Nash, who was also an actress. She was known for her wit, intelligence, and elegance. She lived a comfortable life in Hollywood after retiring from acting in 1939, thanks to her wise investments in real estate and oil.

Florence Nash passed away on April 2, 1950, in Hollywood, California, at the age of sixty-one. She was buried at Woodlawn Cemetery in Santa Monica, California.