Agnes "Aggie" Lonie Capitano

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Agnes “Aggie” (Lonie) Capitano—our sweet, effervescent, always-smiling mom, nana, sister, aunt, and cherished wife of the late Patrick P. “Pat” Capitano. Agnes was born on April 3, 1932, in Luzerne, PA and peacefully transitioned from this life just days after her 94th birthday, on April 7, 2026, in Pittsburgh, PA.

Agnes leaves behind her children, P. Jay Capitano (Old Forge, PA) and Blair Capitano (Pittsburgh, PA); her daughter-in-law, Angela (Lorenc) Capitano (Wyoming, PA); her grandchildren, Dana Capitano (Schenectady, NY), Peter Capitano (Avoca, PA), and Patrick Capitano (Scranton, PA) and her brother, Richard Lonie (Newark, DE). Agnes is also lovingly remembered by her nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

In addition to her beloved husband of 61 years, Agnes was also preceded in death by her grandson, P. Louis Capitano; her sister and best friend Christina “Tina” Perhach; and, most recently, her dear son, R. Gary Capitano.

Agnes was raised in Luzerne, PA, the daughter of Archie and Mary (Sharkus) Lonie, in a happy, modest home where there weren’t many luxuries—but there was always plenty of love. She grew up in a lively household, sharing her childhood home with her sister, brother, and 4 aunts and uncles who were raised alongside them as part of the family. She was a proud graduate of Luzerne High School, class of 1949.

Agnes rarely, if ever, ventured far from Luzerne. It wasn’t until April 19, 1954—when she married her lifelong love, Pat, that she made the “long” pilgrimage  (just a few miles across a Susquehanna River bridge) to settle in Plains and then Laflin, PA, with Pat. There, she built  a home full of devotion, family, loud laughter, and excellent Italian food (learned from Pat’s Mom).

Agnes had many  gifts and passions, carried with quiet confidence and genuine joy. Curious by nature, she was an avid learner throughout her life and especially enjoyed the Bible. With a needle and thread, she brought beauty to life as a talented seamstress and had a natural eye for interior design and fashion. For many years, she worked in the ladies garment manufacturing industry throughout northeastern Pennsylvania. In her spare time, she lovingly would create anything and everything a family or friend may need – from christening gowns to draperies. Later in life, she co-founded and operated a custom drapery business, Draperies Unlimited.

Agnes was warmth – sunshine, joy, and that unmistakable smile. She was an eternal optimist who met people with kindness and an open heart, never judging and always giving the benefit of the doubt. She handled difficult situations with grace. She was selfless and generous in spirit.

Agnes adored her grandchildren and took true delight in being a steadfast part of their lives watching them learn and grow. She loved gatherings of any kind and found quiet wonder in trees and nature—often pausing to gaze at them and softly utter, “So beautiful.” She also loved dimples, ice cream, dancing, Rachmaninoff piano concertos, babies, her furry companion Rosie, Little House on the Prairie (except for Harriet Olson), and wearing lipstick. And in true Agnes fashion, she used to say that if she ever came back to this world, she’d like to return as a “singing, ice-skating swimmer.”

As we mourn the loss of sweet Agnes, we also give thanks for the privilege of having her as part of our lives. A private celebration of Agnes’ life will be held at the family farm in Wyalusing, PA, in late summer. Those who wish to honor Agnes may make a donation to her favorite charity, Blue Chip Farm Animal Refuge, 974 Lockville Road, Dallas, PA 18612, website: bcfanimalrefuge@gmail.org. Arrangements by John A. Freyvogel Sons, Inc.

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