Lorraine A. D'Agostino's Obituary
Lorraine “Reenee” D’Agostino, a devoted and joyful teacher whose life touched generations of students, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at the age of 82. For the past twenty-five years she made her home in Liverpool, NY, though her heart always carried the warmth and memories of her childhood on the north side of Syracuse.
Lorraine graduated from St. John the Baptist Academy in 1960, cherishing lifelong friendships, the camaraderie of cheerleading and basketball games, and the closeness that defined her high school years. She first pursued studies at the Powelson Business Institute, beginning her professional life in the world of shorthand and secretarial work. Soon, however, her true calling emerged.
She enrolled at Onondaga Community College, earning her Associate of Science degree and stepping into a teaching career that would become her greatest joy. Lorraine began at St. Margaret’s School in Mattydale, NY, where she became lovingly known as “Miss Deeee.” The instant a second grader walked through her classroom door on her first day, she knew she had found her life’s purpose. Her eight years at St. Margaret’s inspired her to continue her education; she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education and joined the North Syracuse Central School District, where she taught second and third grades. She never doubted her path—teaching was her passion, and her students remained in her heart long after they left her classroom. She celebrated their milestones, applauded their achievements, and maintained many cherished friendships with them through the years.
A teacher’s teacher, Lorraine was a proud member of the North Syracuse Education Association and the New York State United Teachers Union. She served as an adjunct instructor for NYSUT Effective Teaching and taught graduate courses for both St. Rose College and Long Island University. Lorraine also designed and led numerous workshops for educators. She received multiple teaching grants from the Central New York Teaching Center and the North Syracuse School District, always with her students and colleagues in mind. Her summers were spent joyfully as the art director of the Clay and Cicero playground programs.
Lorraine’s classrooms were renowned for their creativity, energy, and music. Her students often earned recognition for their imaginative work, and her own excellence was honored with the Professional Best Leadership Award (1990) and repeated listings in Who’s Who Among American Teachers (1995–2006). She also authored The ABC’s of MY World, a self-expression writing workbook that encouraged children to explore the world around them.
After retiring in 2006, Miss Deeee continued to cultivate her creative spirit. She delighted friends and family with her whimsical round-headed, wide-eyed cartoon characters—little drawings that wished happy birthdays, sent love, or simply offered a cheerful hello. Lorraine spent her days playing the piano, gardening, painting, sculpting, exploring new ideas online, and doting on her beloved dogs, Josie and Libby.
She was predeceased by her loving parents, Josephine and Lawrence D’Agostino, whose unwavering support instilled in her deep confidence and pride, and by her treasured black poodle, Josie.
Lorraine is survived by her devoted sister, Marianne Bennett, and brother-in-law, Richard; her niece, Rebecca Smith (Mike); her nephew, Michael Bennett (Julie); several great-nieces and one great-nephew; and many unique and cherished cousins. She also leaves behind her dog Libby and several dear “sister friends”—MaryAnne Alexander, Emileen Butler, Ann Frazier, and Colette Harmatiuk—who made the journey of growing older far more joyful. Lorraine is also remembered with love by her family of friends: The Coven (Jennifer, Valerie, Nicole, Jacqueline, and Christiana), along with Connie, Allison, and Seijnia.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., immediately followed by a funeral service celebrating Lorraine’s life at 12:00 p.m. at the THOMAS J. PIRRO JR. FUNERAL HOME, 3401 Vickery Rd. (corner of Buckley Rd.), North Syracuse, NY. Burial will follow in Assumption Cemetery. (In true Miss Deeee fashion we are asking you to wear your best red clothing).
In honor of Lorraine’s spirit, her family invites everyone to do something—however small—to make someone smile. And if a red balloon crosses your path, know that it is Lorraine, Miss Deeee herself, sending you a final, joyful wave goodbye.
What’s your fondest memory of Lorraine?
What’s a lesson you learned from Lorraine?
Share a story where Lorraine's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Lorraine you’ll never forget.
How did Lorraine make you smile?
