Cathy Lynn Nolasco

FREDERICKSBURG, Va. – Cathy Lynn Nolasco, 62, passed away on April 9, 2020, at her home in Fredericksburg, Va. after a long and courageous fight with cancer. Cathy was born Nov. 20, 1957, in Lewiston, Maine, to Robert Paladino and Judy Lee Paladino (nee Greenleaf) and lived in Auburn, Maine throughout her childhood.

She grew up with seven brothers and sisters, Steve Paladino (deceased), Cynthia Paladino of Lewiston, Susan McCullough of Alna, Daniel Paladino of Gray, Joel Paladino of East Lyme, Conn., Julie Castro of Bellevue, Neb., and Robert Paladino II of Belfast.

Cathy is survived by her husband of 32 years Tomas Nolasco; her two daughters Rene Shultzaberger of Culpeper, Va. and Danielle Nolasco of Brooklyn, N.Y.; two grandchildren Robert Park (12 years old) and Anna Shultzaberger (2 years old).

Cathy was a Navy wife for four years in Maine, Panama and then Maryland. They completed the Navy career and settled in Reston, Va. for 22 years before retiring and moving to Fredericksburg, Va.

Cathy attended the University of Maine Augusta for a degree in Information Systems but when she pursued a job, she had to follow her heart and chose a career in early childhood education. She was passionate about advocating and caring for young children and worked at the Reston Children’s Center in Reston, Va. for almost 12 years before having to retire. Her “favorite” pupils were those children who required additional, special attention. Her greatest fulfillment was helping these children open up, begin to trust her and allow her to lead them. Cathy greatly and positively impacted the lives of many children.

Cathy was most dedicated to her family. Her brothers and sisters were never far from her thoughts. She encouraged and coordinated family get-togethers over the years as often as she could, especially each summer and at Christmas. She loved festively decorating her home and creating a magical environment for holidays. Her Christmas tree took hours (and sometimes days) to complete and was the penultimate example of her thoughtful creativity and enthusiastic personality.

Cathy will be buried at Mount Auburn Cemetery at a private family event on July 25, 2021.