In Memoriam: Longtime Rumsonite, RFH Grad, First Aid Squad Volunteer, Mary DeVito Nichols, 80

“Mary’s warm smile, kind heart, and dedication to her family and community will be deeply missed by all who knew her.” ~ family of Mary DeVito Nichols

Longtime West Park Rumsonite, former First Aid Squad captain, Mary DeVito Nichols passed away on April 19 in New York City, surrounded by her loving family. She was 80.

Born on Nov. 16, 1943, in Long Branch, Mary was known as a “dedicated wife, mother, and grandmother who brought joy and laughter to all those around her.”

A Rumson-Fair Haven High Regional School (RFH) and Ocean County College graduate, Mary excelled in her career as a skilled professional in the EMS field. She served as a MONOC paramedic for 27 years and volunteered in the Rumson and Highlands First Aid squads.

“Mary’s commitment to her community was evident as she was elected captain of the Rumson First Aid Squad from 2014-2015 and again in 2018-2019. Mary also dedicated her time as an EMT at Monmouth Park Racetrack. Mary has inspired, saved, trained, served, and shown kindness to many.

“She found solace and community at Holy Cross Roman Catholic Church in Rumson, where she worshipped. Mary enjoyed day trips to Harrah’s Casino in Atlantic City and Foxwoods Casino in Connecticut, betting on horses at Monmouth Park Racetrack and visiting family in Boston.

“Spending time with her best friend Michelle and husband Robert over morning coffee was one of her favorite pastimes. Mary loved spending time with her family and traveling around Monmouth County. Her favorite days of the year were Groundhog’s Day and hosting Christmas Eve at her home. She enjoyed cooking for her family and friends, specifically Italian delicacies, as well as reading and completing puzzles in her free time.
Loved ones of Mary DeVito Nichols in her obituary

Mary is survived by: her beloved husband of 60 years, Robert Nichols; her children, Catherine Ottaviano (Nichols), Frank Nichols, and Ann Nichols; their spouses, Joseph Ottaviano, Karen Nichols, and Jesse Olea; grandchildren, Maria Ottaviano and her husband Peter Andreula, Vincent Ottaviano, Sarah Nichols, Kristen Gomez and her husband Anthony Rodano, Alexander Nichols, James Gomez II, and Jesse Olea; her brother, John DeVito, his wife, Marie; her best friend, Michelle Troccoli; and many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by: her brother, Louis DeVito; her mother, Maria Santa DeVito; and father, Francesco DeVito.

— Photos/Nichols family, FHFD and Rumson First Aid

A memorial gathering will be held on Saturday, April 27, from 1 to 5 p.m. with a funeral service to begin at 3 at Damiano Funeral Home, 191 Franklin Ave., Long Branch. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Rumson First Aid Squad, 1A Wilson Circle, Rumson, NJ 07760.

— Edited obituary prepared by family via Damiano Funeral Home