Nicolina D'Agosto, born Sept. 2, 1961, a beloved mother and friend, dedicated educator, passionate environmentalist and lifelong volunteer, passed away unexpectedly at the age of 63 on Aug. 30, 2025. Born in Brooklyn, N.Y., to Rita and Italo, Nicolina was the proud daughter of first-generation immigrants from Italy and Germany. She grew up alongside two siblings, and throughout her life, her family was at the center of her heart.
Nicolina was a woman of boundless energy and compassion, with a profound love for the Earth and an unwavering commitment to protecting it as well as educating others to do the same. She worked tirelessly to instill values of stewardship, kindness and responsibility in all of her students. With a master's degree in both science and special education, she dedicated herself to continuing her learning for over 15 years, earning certifications in robotics and receiving multiple awards and recognitions from various organizations. In her professional career, she taught for many years at Cardozo High School, retiring in 2020 after a fulfilling career dedicated to shaping the lives of her students.
A passionate volunteer, Nicolina generously gave her time to many causes throughout her life. She raised Shane, a seeing-eye dog, for the Guide Dog Foundation on Long Island, and volunteered at the Takupusha Animal Reserve. She regularly gave educational presentations at schools, curated charitable events and participated in field trips, always eager to make a positive impact on her community. In Massapequa, she volunteered through the "Adopt-a-Spot" program, helping to clean and maintain local parks. She also contributed her time to the Youth Council, organizing summer and fall activities for young people in her community.
She played softball for many seasons, creating lifelong friendships with her teammates. She had a deep love for travel and adventure, and even just weeks before her passing, she was enjoying a vacation in Greece, exploring new places and creating cherished memories.
After retiring, Nicolina moved to Pennsylvania to be closer to her two sons, Christopher and Nicholas, as well as her grandson. She quickly immersed herself in her new community, participating in local charities such as Habitat for Humanity, the Plymouth Rotary and the Kiwanis Club. Nicolina also worked part-time for the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau, traveling the state to teach children about farming, further reflecting her commitment to education and community.
Nicolina was a woman of remarkable generosity, always giving of herself without expecting anything in return. She was a loving and certainly forgiving mother, a kind, loyal and patient friend, as well as a true companion to those fortunate enough to know her. She loved her dog, Pebbles, and found joy in staying connected with the many people she met along her journey.
Her passing leaves a profound void, but her legacy of love, service and dedication will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Nicolina truly embodied the qualities of a selfless and devoted individual, and the world is undoubtedly better for having had her in it. She will be deeply missed, and the earth is fortunate to have had someone like Nicolina working to preserve and protect it.
Nicolina is survived by her two sons, Christopher and Nicholas, and her cherished grandson, as well as her extended family and countless friends. She is predeceased by her mother and siblings.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Graziano Funeral Inc., 700 S. Township Blvd., Pittston Township.
A public vieiwng will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 7, at the funeral home.
The afternoon will commence with a blessing service at 3 p.m. from the funeral home.
For information or to share a memory of Nicolina, visit www.GrazianoFuneralhome.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
2 Entries
Karen Tomasello
September 25, 2025
Sending condolences to Nicky's family. I had no idea of her passing until today. I did not know Nicky long, but for the time I did I wanted to say how Amazing of a Woman she was. Nicky started Volunteering at our VA Medical Center with our Nursing Home Veterans. They all loved her fun loving spirit! She socialized for hours with our Veterans and even attended a weekend baseball game with us. Nicky will surely be missed!
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Funeral services provided by:
Graziano Funeral Home - Pittston700 South Township Boulevard, Pittston, PA 18640
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