Augustine “Gus” and Barbara Coccia

Augustine (Gus) Coccia and Barbara (Jankowski) Coccia of Wilmington, passed away within hours of each other on February 27, 2020.

Barbara earned her nursing degree from Wilmington General Hospital in 1964 where she took delight in being a compassionate caregiver. She was also a volunteer ombudsman for the State of Delaware Division of Aging. In 1995, Barbara found her true passion as a postpartum doula where she provided loving support to mothers, their newborn, and the whole family. Her life was devoted to serving others. She had the unique ability to anticipate the specific needs of those she served.

Gus graduated from Salesianum High School. He started his career at Hoy’s 5 & 10 where he worked his way to the position of regional manager. In 1973, Gus started his own business in the Ogletown Farmers Market which he grew into multiple, successful card and gift shops throughout New Castle, DE He offered genuinely friendly service at Plantery, Crown Gifts and Holiday House for 36 years. After retirement Gus immensely enjoyed working part-time at The Christmas Tree Shop.

Gus and Barbara were married 56 years and were full of life. They poured all they had into their children and grandchildren and formed a special bond with each one. Their home welcomed everyone like a warm hug, where there was always joy, laughter, good food and above all, love. Their generous hearts and friendly nature extended beyond family and into their large community of friends. They are survived by their four children, Michael (Annie), Lisa (Jim), Amy (Mike), Claire (Jimmy) and their twelve grandchildren Bryan, Corey (Brooke), Craig, Danielle, Caitlin, Nicole, Chris, Austin, Kellyann, Evan, Liam and Layne. Barbara is survived by her siblings, John Jankowski (Kelley), Marie Walther, and Robert Jankowski. Gus is survived by his siblings, Phyllis Wells (William) and Tony Coccia (Sheila).

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to Delaware Hospice.

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Funeral Services

A visitation from Church of the Holy Child, 2500 Naamans Road, Wilmington, Delaware will be held on Thursday, March 5, 2020 from 10 am to 12 noon. Mass will be celebrated immediately following the visitation. Interment will be at All Saints Cemetery.

Condolences

David wells writes,

Here it is

03/01/2020 10:12 am

Michael F Ryan writes,

Tony: My sincere condolences. Gus was one of my favorite classmates at Saint Peter's. He had a way of being a friend to everyone, and that personality helped make him so successful not just in business but in life. Mike "Mickey" Ryan

03/01/2020 10:14 am

Franny Green writes,

Deepest sympathies to the Coccia family over the loss of Barbara n Gus. May they rest in eternal peace. Franny Green “60” Lewes De

03/01/2020 10:32 am

Benjamin J. Matwey lit a candle and writes,

The kindest Godmother, the nicest man, a wonderful couple. Two dear and loving hearts. They knew the full joy of life gained with their family and loved ones. And aren’t we all so lucky for having the experience of sharing even one small part of their light?

03/01/2020 11:40 am

Cheryl Rodriguez lit a candle and writes,

Claire My heart goes out to you and your family may God bless you and.your family.

03/01/2020 12:07 pm

Tim, Tanya, Jackson. Kathryn and Charlotte lit a candle and writes,

Our thoughts, prayers and love are with you....

03/01/2020 12:10 pm

Robin Cebenka writes,

Claire and Family, My heart breaks for all of you. I wish you some peace in all of the wonderful, loving memories you have of your mom and dad! Love, Robin Cebenka

03/01/2020 12:15 pm

Keila lit a candle and writes,

My thoughts and prayers are with your family during this difficult time

03/01/2020 12:56 pm

Linda Darrow writes,

Claire and Jim, I send my deepest sympathies to you and your family for the loss of your parents. May they Rest In Peace in God’s loving arms. My prayers are with you all.

03/01/2020 01:06 pm

Lisa and Daniel Mims lit a candle and writes,

We are so sorry for your loss. Our condolences to you and your family during this very difficult time.

03/01/2020 02:18 pm

The Cook Family lit a candle and writes,

Clair and Coccia family, your in our thoughts. We hope the memories of your loved ones carry you through this difficult time. Love, Chris, Jen and Owen.

03/01/2020 04:10 pm

John & Phyllis McWilliams writes,

Sending our deepest condolences for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. 🙏🙏🙏 John & Phyllis McWilliams

03/01/2020 04:11 pm

Betsy writes,

Amy, Mike and Chris my heart breaks for you at this time. You have blessing knowing you were always with them in sickness and in health and shared deep love for each other. Prayers and prayers and prayers for you as you bare this heartache. Love Betsy

03/01/2020 06:32 pm

Sharon Till. (Sandridge) writes,

There are not enough nice things to say about Mr. And Mrs. Coccia. They were just the loveliest people. I always enjoyed running into Barbara at shoprite. We talked for so long! I was at Bonsall park one time when my boys were toddlers. They were misbehaving. There was a man playing basketball and said to me "oh, don't worry. I know what its like, I have 6 grandkids " I said "wait, are your Mr. Coccia, Lisa's dad?" He was so nice to my misbehaving boys and made me feel like a normal mom. They will be missed and they left a wonderful legacy.

03/01/2020 07:29 pm

Susan Burcham lit a candle and writes,

Lisa, Claire, Amy and Mike; I am so sorry to hear of the passing of your parents. They were truly lovely, caring people who were always kind and warm to your friends when at your house. They will be terribly missed but I have comfort knowing they are together as they were here on earth. My heartfelt condolences to all of you.

03/01/2020 07:44 pm

Lauren Pressey writes,

I’m sorry for the loss of your family members. My thoughts and prayers have been with you ever since our hug that night. May God be with you and your family. Lauren Pressey

03/01/2020 11:22 pm

TENUI NEC DIMITTAM-"I'VE TAKEN HOLD AND WON'T LET GO". lit a candle and writes,

TENUI NEC DIMITTAM-"I'VE TAKEN HOLD AND WON'T LET GO"-LATIN MOTTO OF SALESIANUM-SALLIES WILMINGTON DE.-SINCERE CONDOLENCES TO FAMILY-FRIENDS.-RIP.

03/02/2020 08:33 am

Jane “Jamie” Young-Easom lit a candle and writes,

My deepest sympathy to the entire Coccia family. I was lucky enough to know Gus and Barbara since I was a little girl, then as a teenager I worked for him at his shop. They were such wonderful people.

03/02/2020 08:38 am

Helen Sitaras lit a candle and writes,

Amy Words can not express the sadness my heart shares with you and your family .. “ B” became my forever friend the day we met.. Her kindness , laughter and caring will never be forgotten , it was a Blessing to have her in my life.. If not difficult enough you dad’s passing same day is unthinkable He was a wonderful , caring husband and father, he ll be missed very much as well . May God give you strength and courage to endure this most difficult time in your lives.. My deepest , heartfelt sympathy to you and your wonderful family Helen

03/02/2020 10:21 am

Megan M lit a candle and writes,

Barbara was such a sweet and friendly woman. My condolences to the Coccia family.

03/02/2020 04:06 pm

Elinor lit a candle and writes,

Barbara was one of the outstanding Doulas in the community and all the little ones will surely miss her.

03/03/2020 04:34 am

Sandra Grinnage lit a candle and writes,

To Marie and family sorry to hear of your sister and brother in law be strong and know GOD is with you all keep the faith love you and if you need anything I am here for you. Sandra Womack Grinnage

03/03/2020 10:47 am

Betty Nesci lit a candle and writes,

Amy and family, So very sorry for the loss of your parents. I worked with Gus at Hoys (before we were married); we all made it a fun job. I have some pictures if you ever want to see them. Worked for him years later at the Plantery and at his store on DuPont Highway. He was a great person and friend. I also knew his parents. Jim was a great person to be around, I have great memories ...........Betty

03/03/2020 11:33 am

Ann, Steve, Max and Miles writes,

Claire, Jim, Liam, Layne and the entire Coccia family - You are in our prayers during this time of deep grief.

03/03/2020 11:49 am

Kathy (Sontowski) Oller lit a candle and writes,

I immediately connected with Barbara when we met in freshman year at St. Hedwig's High School. Whether going to dances, the Charcoal Pit or our high school trip, a fun-filled time was always had. Being in their wedding party was an honor! Truly, a great couple! With deepest sympathy and love, Kathy (Sontowski) Oller and Sam Oller

03/03/2020 11:57 am

Jude Fisher lit a candle and writes,

Marie and family. I’m so sorry for your loss. Please accept my sincere condolences. God needed two more angels. May they Rest In Peace. Lov ya,

03/04/2020 04:30 am

Harry Barker writes,

I am so sorry for your loss. Prayers to you and your families.

03/04/2020 08:31 am

shaun mason writes,

Amy, I pray you know with a love that lasted 56 years your parents could not bare to be a part. God granted them his mercy and called them home at the same time to continue their love for each other. I pray for you and your family during this most difficult time and I hope to see you soon. Shaun

03/04/2020 03:08 pm

Scott & Barbara Grill lit a candle and writes,

Barb & Gus were the first to greet us to the neighborhood, their kindness made us feel so Welcome ..Going to miss our over the fence chats & jokes.. Between Gus's whit and Barbs infectious laugh, they complimented one another, and were such a fun couple! We are going to miss them terribly. They will never be forgotten, and always remembered with a smile! Our heartfelt condolences to their family and friends.. R.I.P.

03/05/2020 12:51 am

Sr. Theresa Cappelli writes,

My heart goes out to all of you. Your parents faith-filled spirit will live on in all of you and you will continue to reflect their goodness to all you meet.

03/05/2020 08:20 am

Rosemary Falkowski writes,

Dear Coccia Family. I met Barbara and Gus many years ago through Gracie Mirolli. They were such a loving couple, always had a smile on their faces. Always talking about their children and grandchildren and how they were so very proud of each and every one. I am sure Gracie is waiting in heaven to welcome them both. May they both Rest In Peace.

03/05/2020 05:05 pm

Libby Ward writes,

I was a customer at the Plantery in NC way back when it was opened. I happened to see Gus at The Christmas Tree Store. I spoke to him and he remembered me because he use to order Koala bears of any kind for my daughter. Loved going in to the store to see him, his mom and dad too. Very sad to see he and his wife have passed but together forever.

03/06/2020 08:06 am

Kelly Klerlein Boettcher writes,

Our sincere condolences to the entire family. Gus and Barbara let us start our family flower shop at the old Holiday house building back in 1993. New Castle Flowers and Gifts was able to be started with my my sister and I with the help of them. They were kind and will never be forgotten. As the years went by we both got married and when I had my twins, Barbara always had something helpful to say. We were sadden to hear this news! Mike & Sandy Klerlein Kimberly Hill Kelly Boettcher

03/06/2020 07:08 pm

Margaret McCarthy writes,

Barbara was my doula 9 years ago. I found a book of hers cleaning out and was reminiscing how wonderful she was to me and my newborn. It’s been a while, but I could see her holding my daughter and the cute little things she said to baby. I shared these memories with my family. I’m so sorry to see she’s passed. The time after my sons birth was horrific. Barbara made the next experience with my daughter so different and wonderful. I’m sad I can’t tell her myself. I hope this shared memory brings her family a measure of comfort.

05/02/2020 10:43 pm

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