Avzie Pino

May 12, 1939 – May 22, 2026

It is with profound love and sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Avzie Pino, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and a woman whose quiet strength and compassion touched every life she encountered.

Avzie was born on May 12, 1939, in Kuch i Zi, Korçë, Albania, to a loving family alongside her two sisters and three brothers. She was preceded in death by her oldest sister, Lule, and her brother, Nevzat. In her village, Avzie was known as one of the strongest young women — admired not only for her beauty and thick, striking hair, but also for her resilience, grace, and gentle spirit.

Through her aunt Shega, she was introduced to the love of her life, Reis. They married in Shtylla in 1963 and built a beautiful life together in Korçë, where they raised their two daughters, Mamica (Monica) and Mirela.

Avzie was a talented tailor who worked from home while raising her young daughters. Later, she found her true calling at the Befotrof of Korçë, the orphanage for children under the age of three. There, she tailored clothing for the children and worked closely alongside the nurses and Dr. Eleni, caring for the little ones with extraordinary tenderness and devotion. Her love for these children extended far beyond her work. She often brought them into her home during holidays, took them to the park daily, and treated them as her own. Even after moving to the United States in 1999, Avzie continued to visit the orphanage every summer during trips back to Albania, bringing toys and gifts to the children she never forgot.

Her compassion was so profound that many in Korçë lovingly referred to her as “Mother Teresa” for the way she cared for orphaned children. During one of her visits to the orphanage, she even had the honor of meeting Mother Teresa herself — a fitting moment for a woman who embodied such selfless love.

Though naturally quiet and humble, Avzie possessed an enormous heart. She loved her family fiercely and found her greatest joy in being a mother and grandmother. She adored her three grandchildren — Ami, Nildi, and Julian — and played an especially active role in helping raise Nildi and Julian. She was endlessly proud of all of them and cherished every milestone in their lives.

In recent years, becoming a great-grandmother brought her immeasurable happiness. Her heart was fullest while spending time with Andreas, Petra, Adrian, and Louis. She delighted in watching them grow, attending their birthday celebrations, and simply being surrounded by the laughter and love of her family.

Avzie also stood proudly beside her daughters as they built their businesses, supporting them every step of the way. She traveled with them to conferences, including a memorable trip to Istanbul, where she proudly celebrated their success with LifeGlobal. Even later in life, she continued helping with their newest venture, AV Laboratories, carefully preparing samples and handout materials with the same dedication she brought to everything she did.

Beyond her love for people, Avzie had a special affection for animals, especially the family dogs Wizard, Baron, and later Chico, who became her beloved companion. She always made sure every animal around her was fed and cared for with love. She also found peace and joy in flowers and gardening, tending beautifully to gardens both in Connecticut and Canada.

Avzie leaves behind a legacy of kindness, humility, strength, and unconditional love. She taught those around her that the quietest people often carry the greatest hearts. Her warmth, sacrifice, and nurturing spirit will forever remain in the lives of those who knew and loved her.

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.