Mina Paolucci

Mina Paolucci, 90, a longtime fixture on Colley Avenue at the Ghent Seamstress and Tailor Shop, passed away peacefully on February 18, 2026, with her daughters at her side. Born on November 12, 1935, in Montefalcione, Italy. Mina grew up on a family farm. She was predeceased by her husband, Frank, with whom she left Italy to pursue the American dream in 1966. While Frank, a classically trained tailor, worked multiple jobs, Mina stayed at home to raise their two daughters.

Once her daughters were well into school, Mina took a bold step to open a business on Colley Avenue. Frank continued to work at Shulman and Co. as the business started, but the success of their teamwork enabled Frank to join Mina full-time working together for 30 years. Their clients were the joy of their working days, but family always came first. She was a faithful parishioner of Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

She is survived by her daughters Maria Rowe (Mark) of Norfolk, VA, Josephine Summa (Eric) of Jacksonville, FL, and grandchildren Alexandra Rowe, Mia Summa, and Dominic Summa as well as many nieces and nephews. The family extends gratitude to her dedicated team of caregivers, Veronica Ruffin, Vanessa Holley, Denise Davis, Misty Erstgaard, and Sarah Mayfield and who were more like family in their dedication to providing care and companionship. Additional thanks go to the top-notch staff of Harbor's Edge Assisted Living unit.

A funeral mass will be celebrated at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 520 Graydon Ave., Norfolk at 10a.m., Wednesday, February 25. The family will receive friends at H.D. Oliver Funeral Apartments, Norfolk Chapel, Tuesday from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Sacred Heart Catholic Church.