Madeline Golia

March 2, 2018
GOLIA, MADELINE (2) obit & cards

Madeline (Nava) Golia, 87, of Hollis, NH, widow of Ralph Golia, passed away Friday evening, March 2, 2018, after a brief illness.

Mrs. Golia was born in New York, NY on October 19, 1930 to Italian immigrants, Teofilo and Eleanora (Miele) Nava. She was raised in New York City and was a graduate of Hunter College where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in education.

Madeline was a longtime teacher in the public-school system in New York City, and Assistant Principal at PS31 and later a Principal at PS1 in the Bronx until she retired.
She and her husband Ralph were married in 1953 and made their home in East Chester, NY, Montauk, L.I., NY and winters in Naples, FL. The couple shared 54 years together until his passing on April 13, 2007.

Her many interests include her love of Broadway and Opera, watching old movies, writing poetry, solving crossword puzzles and was a talented artist. She was an inspiration to her grandchildren and adored her great-grandchildren.

Members of her family include two sons and their wives, David and Brenda Golia of Hollis, with whom she has resided since 2005; and Ralph and Lynne Golia of Pennsylvania; eight grandchildren, Amanda Malamud and her husband Matthew, David Golia II and his wife Brieana, Daniel Golia and his wife Alicia, Megan Golia and her husband Robert Laraway, Allison Golia, Justin Golia, Sara Golia and Emily Golia; three great-grandchildren, Madeline Malamud, Lincoln Malamud and Benjamin Golia; a brother, Angelo Nava of New York; also nieces and nephews. Madeline was also predeceased by a brother, Giovanni “John” Nava.

There are no calling hours. Following cremation, A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in the Parish of the Resurrection, 449 Broad Street, Nashua, Monday morning, March 12th at 11 o’clock. Friends are invited to attend. The family has requested that in lieu of flowers, donations may be sent in her memory to DEA Survivor Benefit Fund, 2020 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Suite 659, Washington, DC 2006 or www.survivorsbenefitfund.org. Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE, 18 Lock Street, Nashua. (603) 882-0591. www.farwellfuneralservice.com

11 Comments on Madeline Golia

Flora Ruotolo Schneider said : Guest Report Jan 11, 2020 at 11:04 PM

Today was one of the saddest day in my life. I learned that my dearest friend, mentor and big sister has passed. I was -11 years old when Madelene came into my life . For the past 70 years we have remained close and shared over and our past memories. Sleep well with Ralph in peace. M Z saw

Melanie Weiss said : Guest Report Oct 10, 2018 at 11:19 PM

She was my 4th grade teacher at P.S. 31. We were in our classroom, and all the teachers were in the hallway, talking. She always dressed so beautifully and was immaculately groomed, so when she walked back into the classroom, mascara smeared , crying, we knew something was wrong. She took a deep breath and told us that President Kennedy has been assassinated. Some of us started crying. She went around the classroom and gave each of us a hug. I remember her perfume. She was a lovely person.

Roberta Bowers said : Guest Report Mar 20, 2018 at 2:46 PM

I was a member of Madeline's teaching staff at P.S. 1, Bx. She was a really good person to work for and and with. The children came first. I will always remember her great, caring and big heart. She was a good listener and very fair in decision making. She left a great legacy. May she rest in peace!

Annette Kessler said : Guest Report Mar 14, 2018 at 1:08 AM

I have such special. Memories of Madeline during my time as a teacher at P'S 31. We shared great friendships with life long friends who got their teaching expertise from Madeline. She loved the children and created excellent educational experiences which she passed on to newer teachers. I did not see Madeline for many years since I moved to Los Angeles , but I kept in touch with her through mail and our-mutual friends. ...and implemented her expertise throughout my professional career. My condolences to the family she loved so much she was so special

Erica said : Guest Report Mar 08, 2018 at 7:03 PM

My deepest sympathies. I 'grew up' with Mrs. Golia as a student at PS 31 and loved her as so many of us did. We who shared her with you will always remember her fondly. Erica Schwartz (Alyxx Morgen)

Gini MCFadden Gesell said : Guest Report Mar 08, 2018 at 3:23 PM

I will miss visiting with Madeline and all the discussions about books we read and what our family’s have been up to. She and her husband Ralph were great friends and company with my parents. So I always looked forward to a dinner out with them all when I visited in Naples. I can only imagine how she will be missed in your family. What a wonderful matriarch and mentor. My heart felt condolences to you all,

Mary McFadden Boyle said : Guest Report Mar 08, 2018 at 12:56 PM

I will so miss Madeline on our trips to Naples. She was a wonderful person and always so kind and entertaining. Wish I had been able to see her more often. A beautiful soul is lost to us but reunited with her beloved husband Ralph.

Maria A. Thomas said : Guest Report Mar 08, 2018 at 9:03 AM

Madeline Golia was my first principal when I entered the public school system. She took a chance on a new teacher in the system, but experienced from working in the day care system. She trusted and supported me to give my students the best education possible. I will always remember her as a kind, knowledgeable supervisor. I worked with her from 1983-9. May she Rest In Peace and rise in glory.

Susan Romer said : Guest Report Mar 07, 2018 at 9:10 PM

Madeline was smart and classy. Beyond that, she was a friend and mentor. Although she was a Principal, she was always a teacher first. She truly enjoyed working with children. What a wonderful legacy. I miss her.

Helene (her nickname for me was 'stinky') said : Guest Report Mar 07, 2018 at 4:41 PM

Madeline was a kind and gentle soul. She was my mentor and a loyal friend for over 50 years. We shared so many experiences at PS 31 and then later at PS 1 that every time I reminisce about my years in Education, her name and face immediately pop up. We laughed alot- and cried too- and I am forever grateful for her love and support. I am sad that over the last decade- or two- we were so separated by miles and that the proposed trip to New Hampshire this spring will not happen. My love to her wonderful family. Mad, RIP.

Glenna Wyatt said : Guest Report Mar 07, 2018 at 8:14 AM

When I think of Madeline, I think, what a beautiful soul, what a beautiful life, what a beautiful legacy of love. I hope the family will find some measure of comfort in knowing others care. Madeline was good to me, I loved her and will miss her.

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