Nicholas Cuomo

Nicholas Gerard Cuomo, 86, of Charleston, the widower of Sara Elizabeth Clary Cuomo, died of complications due to congestive heart failure on September 22, 2011 at Hospice of Charleston surrounded by daughters. He was born on December 3, 1924 in Bronx, New York. Nick's surviving siblings are Gerard Cuomo of Ocean City, Maryland and Theresa Cuomo Calabrese of Yonkers, New York. He is also survived by his daughters, Judy Cuomo, Toni C. Dieppe (Pete), Suzi C. Raiford (Steve), Missi C. Calejo (John), Mari C. Fisher (Brian), Noelle C. Smith (John), thirteen grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. He was a member of Blessed Sacrament Parish since 1952, served as Eucharistic Minister and Deacon in the Catholic Diocese of Charleston for over twenty years-known as "Deacon Nick". He was responsible for Novena services in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel of Perpetual Adoration. Nick was instrumental in the establishment of the Parochial School Basketball League and coached boys' and girls' basketball teams for over 30 years. He was a member of the Blessed Sacrament "Bingo Boys", Knights of Columbus and Sons of Italy. Nick was known to give dimes to girls and boys so they always knew they could call him if they needed him. He attended classes at The Citadel and the College of Charleston and was considered a lifelong learner. Nick enjoyed acting in community theater and performing his comedy routines at annual Deacon Retreats and telling stories about raising six daughters. He was also an active tennis and basketball player. Nick won several medals in the Senior Olympics. He volunteered at tennis tournaments including Family Circle Cup and as a docent during Piccolo Spoleto for many years. Nick was a WWII Veteran, served in the Coast Guard until 1945, Charleston County Police Department, U.S. Post office and retired as Federal Customs Inspector in 1989 after 40 years of civil service. Post-retirement, he worked for the City of Charleston Recreation Department. The relatives and friends of Nicholas G. Cuomo are invited to attend his Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 AM, Wednesday, September 28, 2011 at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church. The Rite of Committal will be held in Holy Cross Cemetery on James Island. The Rosary will be recited at 5:00 PM with the family receiving friends until 8:00 PM, Tuesday, September 27, 2011 at the James A. McAlister Funeral Home, 1620 Savannah Hwy. Charleston. Nick's guest book may be signed online at www.jamesamcalister.com Arrangements are by JAMES A. MCALISTER Funerals & Cremation. (843) 766-1365.