Boogie was drafted in October 1952 during the Korean War and served in the US Army "Hell on Wheels" Division for 2 years. During his youth he worked alongside his brothers for his father's Newport News business, S. Nicosia Produce, until it closed around 1970. He thrived off of staying busy and spent many days of his most recent years at his nephew Tim Wilson's auto body shop where he assumed the role of "supervisor."
Boogie was preceded in death by his parents, Salvatore and Grace O. Nicosia; sisters Grace Czerongia, Carmelina Wilson, and Antoinette Lupia; brothers Santo Branchina, Frank, Lawrence, and Joseph Nicosia.
He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Jane Hood Nicosia; their four children, who he cherished, Michael Nicosia and wife Carol; Lynn Steiner and husband Vilas; Nick Nicosia and wife Effie; and Paige Slemp and husband Randy. He is survived by six grandchildren Tony (Angie), Bryan (Hannah), Rachel (Adam), Laura, Vince and Brendan (Rachel). He is also survived by three great-grandchildren (Connor, Cole and Juliana) and a number of special nieces and nephews who he remained close to throughout his life.
Boogie adored his family and friends, and he never met a stranger. He was loved by so many people, which was overwhelmingly apparent by the number of people who called or came to visit these last 2 weeks. He was shown so much love during this time that it gave him the strength and the will to try to get well. He knew he was loved, and we know he loved us!
We would like to thank all of the physicians and staff who took excellent care of Boogie at both Sentara CarePlex in Hampton and Walter Reed Convalescent & Rehab Center in Gloucester. A special expression of gratitude is extended to Dr. Loel Payne, who cared for Boogie on numerous occasions and during this most recent hospitalization. We would also like to thank the staff of Hidenwood Family Practice and Dr. Elizabeth Cooper, who lovingly cared for him for many years.
A celebration of life will be held on Wednesday, August 14, 2019, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Parklawn-Wood Funeral Home, Hampton. Interment will be private.
Memorial donations may be made in his memory to the American Heart Association, 4669 South Boulevard, Virginia Beach, VA 23452 or online at www.heart.org.
