OBITUARY: Norma M. (Centracchio) Nolan, 90

Below is an obituary from Nichols Funeral Home:

WILMINGTON, MA — Norma M. Nolan, age 90, of Peabody, formerly a long-time resident of Wilmington, passed away on March 29, 2024.

Norma was born on June 14, 1933, in Boston, MA; she was the cherished daughter of the late John Centracchio and Cecelia (Forgione) Centracchio. Norma was the youngest of 3 children; she was the dear sister of John Centracchio of Holliston and Elaine Heil of Manhattan Beach, California.

While in high school, Norma met her soulmate, Francis Patrick Nolan; during the first six years of dating, they both completed their bachelor’s degrees before getting married. The couple lived in East Boston for two years, where they welcomed their oldest two children, Kevin, and Lydia. While Fran finished his master’s degree, the family moved to Wilmington and four more children were born: Christopher, Scott, Jonathan, and Allison.

Norma’s teaching career began in the late 70’s as a pioneer in the Special Education Department. She continued her career in early education, and she eventually retired after 25 years.

While raising 6 children, as devout Catholics, tragedy fell upon the family with the loss of their oldest son Kevin at only 15 years young. Their deep Catholic Faith and community through St. Thomas supported Norma and her family through the devastating loss. Her faith continued to be a very large part of her life daily.

Norma and Fran worked hard at raising a family, eventually retiring, traveling, and moving down to the Cape. Their life at the Cape became some of Normas fondest memories for more than thirty years. She enjoyed quilts, gardens, walks on the beautiful beaches, and quahogging with her grandchildren.

Fran and Norma moved to Brooksby Village, entering a new chapter in their lives, creating new friendships and re-kindling old friendships from their youth. This allowed them to be closer to their family while enjoying their last few years together.

Norma never stopped giving and caring for her friends and family. In the end, Norma was surrounded by her many loving friends and family. Her loss will forever be in her loved ones’ hearts, alongside the many beautiful memories of who she was.

Funeral Services for Norma are private.

Donations in Norma’s memory may be made to the Kevin Nolan Scholarship Fund. Checks can be made payable to the WHS Booster Association, P.O. Box 216, Wilmington MA 01887 c/o Kevin Nolan Scholarship Fund.