Below is an obituary from Nichols Funeral Home:
WILMINGTON, MA — Robert Brent Niceforo, affectionately known as Robby, “Mr. Nice,” or simply “Coach Nice,” of Wilmington, MA, passed away on September 9, 2025, at the age of 51. A beloved family man, dedicated educator, respected coach, loyal friend, and mentor to many, Robby left an unforgettable mark on everyone privileged to know him.
Born on October 9, 1973, in Lawrence, MA, Robby was the cherished son of Judith (Brent) Russo and Robert Niceforo. Raised in Methuen, Robby was an energetic and athletic young man who played youth sports and found a passion for wrestling at Methuen High School, graduating with the Class of 1991.
He continued his academic and athletic journey at Syracuse University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in education. There, he was not only a dedicated student, but also a wrestler and rugby player, always thriving in team environments and forming bonds that would last a lifetime.
Robby met and married the love of his life, Gracemarie (Crupi) Niceforo. Together, they built a beautiful life and home in Wilmington, where they raised their two beloved children, Christian and Olivia. Robby was a devoted dad, always present and proud—whether it was enjoying country concerts with his son or cheering from the sidelines and guiding his daughter in her sports. His family was truly his world.
Professionally, Robby spent over two decades as a well-loved math teacher at Lawrence Vocational High School, where he also coached cross-country. He was equally respected at Lawrence High School, where he coached wrestling and football. Known for his integrity, encouragement, and leadership, Coach Nice was more than a coach, he was a mentor, a motivator, and a true role model to countless students and athletes. He was also a treasured colleague who brought warmth, energy, and a sense of humor to every staff room and school hallway.
Outside of work, Robby was a man of many passions. He loved camping, cooking, and all things sports. Music brought him joy, from classic rock to country and he never turned down a chance to dance. In his younger years, he was a talented break dancer, often stealing the show at family gatherings. With a contagious laugh and a gift for making people smile, Robby was known for his incredible sense of humor and light-hearted spirit.
Robby’s presence was a blessing, and his absence leaves a space that cannot be filled. His legacy will live on through his family, his students, and all those whose lives he touched with his guidance, humor, and heart.
Robby was the beloved husband of Gracemarie Niceforo (Crupi), devoted father of Christian and Olivia Niceforo, all of Wilmington. He was the dear son of Judith Russo and her husband Chuck of Methuen and Robert Niceforo and his wife Evelyn of Concord, NH, brother of Kevin Niceforo and his fiancée Suzanne Gustafson of Arlington and Gina Niceforo of California, grandson of the late Agnes and Pete Brent and the late John and Mamie Niceforo, son-in-law of the late Antonio and Olivia Crupi, brother-in-law to Karen and the late John Crupi of Andover, and Carl and Maribeth Crupi of Wilmington. Robby also leaves a large, loving extended family of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Family and Friends are Invited to attend Visiting Hours at the Nichols Funeral Home, 187 Middlesex Ave. (Rte. 62), Wilmington, MA, on Monday, September 15th from 3:30–7:30 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, September 16th at 10:30 a.m. in St. Thomas of Villanova Church, 126 Middlesex Ave., Wilmington, MA. (Please go directly to the church.) Interment will follow in Wildwood Cemetery, Wilmington.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Robby’s memory to The Lawrence High Athletic Boosters, c/o Wrestling Team, 70-71 North Parish Road, Lawrence, MA 01843.
To leave a message of condolence for the family, please visit www.nicholsfuneralhome.com.
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