Joseph NISTICO

NISTICO, Joseph December 3, 1938 – August 22, 2025

Age 86, of Lake Mary, FL, passed away on Friday, August 22, 2025, with his devoted wife and loved ones by his side. Born on December 3, 1938, in Lawrence, MA, he was the son of the late Joseph and Michelina (Jacobo) Nistico.

Joe grew up in the Prospect Hill area of Lawrence, where he developed strong bonds with his cousins and nephew and became an avid Boston sports fan. He attended Beverly School for the Deaf, where he played basketball and formed close friendships lasting 80 years.

He went on to marry Mildred Chin Ying, in 1965, and began his lifelong job at The Boston Globe. Joe and Millie raised their family in Wilmington. He loved his family and was his children's and grandchildren's biggest fan, attending games and befriending all the parents.

It was routine for Joe to take a few detours on his way home from golf, for either an Italian sub or to place a bet at Suffolk Downs, all while checking in with his people along the way. Whether people met Joe once or knew him for years, everyone always wanted to know, "How's Joe?" Followed by a fond memory of how he touched their lives.

Although Joe could not hear, his ability to make personal connections, passion for life and sense humor always seemed to land him floor seats at a Celtics game, an invite to a round of golf or an extra side of meatballs. With a wink and a smile, he won everyone over.

Joe found love again during his retirement years in Florida. Joe and Debra enjoyed adventure: ocean swims, travel, friends, and catching happy hour. His authenticity coupled with his infectious personality is now his wonderful legacy.

Joe is survived by his current wife, Debra Jenkins; her daughter, Joanna Velez-Diaz and husband, Carlos of Sanford, FL; and their three children, Alexander, Isabella and Marcos.

He was predeceased by his first wife, Mildred (d. 2012); and sister, Lydia Parolisi (d. 2018); and survived by his daughter, Linda Klier and her husband, Peter of Cohasset; his daughter, Cathy Giberti and her husband, John of Marshfield; his son, Christopher Nistico, of Gainesville, VA; and his grandchildren, Julia, Natalie, Joseph, Caroline and Johnny.

A Celebration of Life will be held, at later date for immediate family. Remembrances may be made by donating to "CCCBSD," Beverly School for the Deaf, 6 Echo Street, Beverly, MA 01905.