Pia Pagliuca’s life has always been rooted in the vibrant community of Holbrook, New York, where she lived for 80 years. For her, Holbrook was more than just a hometown; it was the foundation of her identity, her deep connection to the people around her, and the place where her journey began. It was in Holbrook that Pia met and married her husband, Anthony Pagliuca, and together they raised a family, building a life full of love, joy, and cherished memories.
Pia’s family had a long and cherished history in the community. Her parents, Jack and Mary Barbara, owned the Maybar Deli, a beloved family-run establishment on Main Street. The deli wasn’t just a place to buy food—it was a gathering spot for the people of Holbrook, where everyone knew your name. Pia grew up working alongside her parents, learning the values of hard work, customer service, and the importance of community. The Maybar Deli became more than a business; it was a cornerstone of their lives and a place that deeply shaped Pia’s sense of belonging.
After marrying Anthony the love of her life, Pia continued to live in Holbrook, not far from her childhood home on Grundy Avenue. The community was her life, and she never imagined living anywhere else. Holbrook was where family gatherings, familiar faces, and shared memories made it a place that always felt like home. It was a life she never thought would change—until the challenges of life began to unfold.
One of the most difficult obstacles Pia faced was the gradual loss of her sight. This challenge required Pia to adapt in ways she never imagined, but it was a struggle she met with incredible strength and resilience. Throughout this period, Pia’s mother played a pivotal role in helping her navigate the changes. She taught Pia how to live independently, proving that even with limited vision, Pia could continue to live a fulfilling and independent life. Her mother’s unwavering support and wisdom allowed Pia to embrace her new reality with grace and determination.
As Pia approaches her 98th birthday, she reflects on her life with deep gratitude. Despite the challenges, Pia has always been supported by a loving and devoted family. Her children and grandchildren have brought immeasurable joy to her life, providing love and strength through the years. Their presence has been a constant source of support, helping her through the toughest times.
Six years ago, Pia made the difficult decision to leave her beloved Holbrook and move to North Carolina to be closer to her daughter and son-in-law. Though it was a significant change and marked the end of an era, Pia has embraced this new chapter in her life. Moving to North Carolina has brought her even closer to her family, creating new memories while cherishing those from Holbrook. Despite the distance, the spirit and values of Holbrook remain deeply embedded in Pia’s heart. The small town will always be where her roots are, where her family’s legacy began, and where the foundation of her life was built.
As Pia reflects on nearly a century of life, she remains grateful for the community that shaped her, the lessons she learned, and the love that surrounds her. Holbrook will always hold a special place in her heart, and as she celebrates her remarkable life, Pia carries with her the values of family, hard work, and community—the very values that have defined her journey.
About Pia
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
I have a son, Bruce Pagliuca, and a daughter, Jackie, both of whom lived on Long Island until college. I’m blessed with two grandsons, Alex Pagliuca and Adam Colandrea, married to Chelsea. My dear sister, Rosemary, is very close to me.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I began my career as a masseuse with Dr. Laviano, a role that gave me great purpose. I then worked in Holbrook Hospital’s rehabilitation department, aiding in the healing of others. It was a true honor to be part of the team that opened the Holbrook Post Office. I dedicated many years to our family store and later served as a bookkeeper at Prima Asphalt, where I continued to give my all until my retirement.
Q: What advice would you give to people?
Be nice, be pleasant and be loving. Always remember that God loves you and has your back.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
Dancing with Jesus.
Pia & Our Community
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
Momma Lombardi’s, and Holbrook Diner
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
I lived in the community from the age of 12 until I moved to NC at age 92.
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
There are so many interesting people it is hard to say.
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
The Maybar was such a large part my childhood, and adult life.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
The friendliness of the community. Customers and co-workers that became friends and are like family to me. The friends I have made along the way, are the most important thing to me.
Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
I would love to have lunch with Pat Hauser and her family. They were not just neightbors they became family. Of course, I would love to have lunch with my sister also. I miss her and would love to have lunch at the Holbrook Diner.
For Fun
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
Golden Girls, Wheel of Fortune, Family Fued.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I love to play cards and I used to love to cook and also do Calligraphy writing.
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
Family and Friends
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
My mother and God.
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Love, Family and Friends.