Nicola Giovani "Nick" Autolino

1929 - 2021

Nicola "Nick" Giovanni Autolino, 91, died of cancer on July 26, 2020 in Newport News, VA surrounded by his family. He was born February 18, 1929 in NY City, NY.

Nick's parents took him home to Italy when he was six months old and as a young boy he made money for his family by running errands for the occupation forces. At 21 yrs he came to America where he found his first job in a chocolate factory and later enlisted in the US Army. He was sent to Italy as a translator, and later stationed in Germany, working as a medic and later a surveyor. After the Korean War he came to Hampton, VA where he worked as a surveyor and other jobs before opening restaurants and businesses including the American Enterprise Pawn Shop, the Godfather Restaurant, and an Italian Import shop in Newport News, Virginia.

Nick married Nellie Dunbar and had two sons, Vincent and Anthony Autolino. She preceded him in death on Dec. 16, 2012. His companion of 40 years, Hilah Franklin Terrell preceded him in death on Sept. 2, 2012.

Nick will be remembered for his infinite wisdom, generosity, and his eagerness to help anyone who crossed his life path. He loved his family, extended family and dear friends, too numerous to list. Holidays celebrated at his home were memorable.

Nick was preceded in death by his parents, Vincenzo and Caterina Autolino and his brothers Franco and Carlo Autolino of Italy.

He is survived by 2 sons: Vincent Autolino (Kelly) of Newport News, VA and Anthony Autolino (Fernanda) of Avellino, Italy and four grandchildren: Caterina Nicole Autolino Brown (Derrick), Christopher Autolino (deceased on April 29, 2021), Laura and Nicola Autolino of Italy and three great grandchildren: Julia, Madison and Annalise Brown. He is also survived by his beloved sisters Anna Bruno and Aniello Autolino who were a lifetime comfort to him. He will be missed by his many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends in the United States and Italy.

On May 28, 2021 a visitation for both Nick and Christopher Autolino will be conducted by Cremation Society of Virginia, at Altmeyer Funeral Home, 12893 Jefferson Ave, Newport News, VA from 5-7pm. His remains will be interred at the family mausoleum in Italy.