Linda Ann Schiavone

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Native Staten Islander Linda A. Schiavone, 76, a compassionate nurse, mother and sister who had a gift for listening and keeping her family close, died Sunday, Aug. 16, surrounded by family and friends.

Born Linda Normile in West Brighton, Schiavone was a member of Port Richmond High School’s class of 1968.She graduated from St. Vincent’s Hospital School of Nursing in 1970 and moved to Florida in 1972, where she carried the values of compassion, dedication and service throughout her life.

Schiavone built a distinguished career at Lee Memorial Health System as a registered nurse and certified senior advisor, devoting decades to helping patients and families navigate healthcare at life’s most challenging moments.Her work reflected her deep commitment to caring for others and improving the lives of those she served. That commitment was evident in her family life as well, said her sister Jan Somma-Hammel.

“She always showed up,” said Somma-Hammel. “She was always a key factor in the family being so close. For me, her consistency in being present for the family was very important.”

Somma-Hammel said her sister was gifted with the ability to listen with care and offer solid advice. “She was easy to talk to,” Somma-Hammel said. “She was really always there.”

Schiavone truly had a calling for nursing, her sister said, and she responded to that calling at a young age, volunteering as a candy striper at the former St. Vincent’s Hospital (now Richmond University Medical Center) in West Brighton.

Schiavone will be remembered for her kindness, strength, generosity and unwavering dedication to helping others, Somma-Hammel said, noting that her legacy will live on through the countless lives she touched through her family, friendships and professional career.

Schiavone was known for her unique style, and she favored modern fashions and home-decorating trends. Her beloved dogs, whom she referred to as her “fur babies,” Angela Joy and Toby Tyler, were at her side every day.

She was predeceased by her brother, John C. “Jack” Normile Jr., who died in March 2024.

In addition to Somma-Hammel, Schiavone is survived by her partner of 42 years, Judy Agos; her daughters, Elena Schiavone Lengares and Theresa Schiavone, and her sister, Noël Skinner. She is also survived by her beloved aunt, Michaelina “Mickey” Cafero; her nieces and extended family members, and many friends.

Later residing in Fort Myers, Florida, Schiavone remained devoted to her family and maintained close ties to her Staten Island roots.

Family and friends are invited to gather on Saturday, Aug. 22, 1:00 pm visitation 2:00pm service at Hodges Funeral Home at Lee Memorial Park in Lehigh Acres, Florida.