Kathryn (Maline) Lagnese

KATHRYN LAGNESE, of Brookline, on Friday, November 14, 2025.  Beloved wife of Thomas J.; mother of Thomas J., Jr. (Elizabeth), Robert J. (Jeri), Edward J. (LuAnn) and James A. (Theresa) Lagnese.  Also survived by 10 grandchildren.

Kay was born in Greensburg, PA. She was separated from her siblings by war, illness, and  the death of her parents. Through every hardship, she remained steady in her faith, her trust in God, and the guidance she found in her Catholic upbringing.

Kay brightened every room with her sunny personality and warm smile. She believed that hard work, a hopeful attitude, and a quick wit could lighten any problem. Kay’s passion was painting which showed in her award-winning artwork, full of life — often floral, always beautiful. Her watercolors looked effortless, but they reflected her remarkable focus and dedication. Her love of art was matched only by the love she had for her family.

Her generosity touched everyone around her, often through the food she lovingly made. In Proverb 31 it describes the perfect wife and her value far more precious than jewels. For more than 70 years, she proved that value as she served her family three meals a day,  countless snacks.  She provided for the needy and supported the church as a Eucharist minister.  Whenever Tom found a bargain too good to pass up, he would return home with an enormous ham or turkey. After days of serving it, Kay would call her son and ask him, his wife, and their five boys to come help finish the “damn ham” before she had to eat it one more time.

Kay shared her creativity and warmth with her ten grandchildren through painting lessons and homemade tapioca pudding. She also gave her time to her church, helping create one of the best Lenten fish fries in the ’Burgh. And anyone who tasted her pineapple upside-down cake always came back for seconds.

Kay will be deeply missed, but the colors she brought into our lives will not fade. Her bright, loving spirit will continue to shine in every heart she touched.

Family and friends will be received at Frank F. DeBor Funeral Home, Inc., 1065 Brookline Boulevard, 412-561-0380, on Friday, November 21, from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, November 22, at 10 a.m., in the Church of the Resurrection (St. Teresa of Kolkata Parish).

Memorial contributions may be made to The Society of St. Vincent DePaul, 3048 Pioneer Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA  15226 (www.svdppitt.org)

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