Sylvia F. (Patalano) Mackey

Sylvia Frances (Patalano) Mackey, of Arlington, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 10, 2026, at the age of 92.

Sylvia was born on October 4, 1933, in Somerville to Pasquale Patalano and Lucia (Ciccanesi) Patalano; beloved wife of the late John “Jack” Mackey; devoted mother of Kim Mackey and Gail (Mackey) Nye and her husband Andy; and the cherished grandmother of Lily Nye and Piper Nye. She was predeceased by her siblings: Dr. Vincent J. Patalano Sr. (survived by his wife Sandra), Mary Patalano, and Clara Fante (beloved wife of Ronald Fante). She is lovingly survived by cherished nieces, nephews, cousins & friends.

From an early age, Sylvia showed a quiet strength and compassion that would come to define her life. A proud graduate of Somerville High School, she earned a scholarship to Mount Auburn Nursing School, beginning a lifelong calling to care for others.

Sylvia went on to build a distinguished career as a Registered Nurse, eventually becoming the Director of Nursing at Boston City Hospital. There, she made a lasting impact on the well-being of countless patients and formed lifelong friendships that remained dear to her heart.

It was at Boston City Hospital that Sylvia met the love of her life, Jack. She quickly knew he was truly special. She often called him her angel, and together they shared a quiet, steady bond that brought comfort and joy to their lives. In both the simplest everyday moments and life’s greatest challenges, they remained by each other’s side - holding hands faithfully until his passing in 2009.

Sylvia’s life was defined by her unwavering selflessness. She lovingly cared for her ailing mother while raising her two young daughters, balancing family and responsibility with quiet grace. Above all else, Sylvia’s life was anchored in her profound love for her daughters, Kim and Gail. From the moment they were born, they were the center of her world and the greatest joy of her heart. Her love for them was constant, unconditional, and enduring—always placing their needs above her own and offering a steady presence they could rely on in every circumstance. As they grew, that same devotion remained at the heart of all she did, with Sylvia even lending her time at Somerville Hospital, where she worked alongside her dear brother, Dr. Pat, and her beloved husband, Jack.

Always ahead of her time, Sylvia embraced holistic healing practices, extending comfort to those around her in meaningful and innovative ways. She had a rare gift for making people feel seen, heard, and valued—uplifting others with kindness, understanding, and steady support.

Her granddaughters, Lily and Piper, were the light of her life and brought her immeasurable joy. She delighted in their laughter and treasured every moment spent with them. Whether sharing stories, offering guidance, or simply being together, her love for them was constant and deeply felt, and it was a love that will continue to live on in them.

Sylvia will be deeply missed and will be remembered as a selfless, warm, kind and compassionate woman whose presence brought comfort and light to all who knew her.

Family and friends are cordially invited to gather and share memories with Sylvia's Family on Thursday, April 16th from 9am - 10am in the Barile Family Funeral Home, 482 Main St. (RT 28) STONEHAM.  Parking attendants and elevator are available.

A Funeral Mass Celebrating Sylvia's Eternal Life will be held on Thursday, April 16th at 10:30am in Saint Eulalia Church, 50 Ridge Street Winchester.  Interment Mount Pleasant Cemetery, Arlington.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Sylvia’s memory may be made to the Susan G. Komen Foundation by referring to the link below.

For more information, www.facebook.com/BarileFamilyFuneralHome