Patricia (Cozzolino) Hickey

Patricia (Cozzolino) Hickey, 84, a longtime resident of Auburn, passed away peacefully, surrounded by the family she loved, on Saturday, January 24, 2026.

Patricia was born in Worcester, one of seven children of Luigi J. Cozzolino, Sr. and Rose M. (DiGiorno) Cozzolino. She was raised in Worcester and graduated from Commerce High School and Salter’s Secretarial School. In 1961, she married the love of her life, Francis “Franny” Hickey. Together, they purchased their home in Auburn, where they raised their son and, for more than 65 years, celebrated faith, family, holidays, and joyful gatherings.

Patricia began her career in the administrative offices of the former Thom McAn Shoe Company and later served as an executive secretary for TJX Companies, from which she retired. She often said she “worked for the best.” Patricia also co-owned Hickey’s Bakery in Auburn with her husband Franny, assisting with its daily operations and administration.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Francis Hickey; her son, Sean F. Hickey, and his wife, Rondi, of Tolland, CT; and her three beloved grandchildren, Cole, Blake, and Alex, who were the light of her life. She is also survived by her brother, Raymond Cozzolino of Worcester, along with many nieces, nephews, and dear friends, including her cherished friends Joanne Trotto and Janet Strandring. Patricia was predeceased by her parents; her brothers Alfred, Joseph, and Louis Cozzolino, Jr.; and her sisters Ann Reynolds and Irene McBride.

Patricia was a faithful member of Our Lady of Loreto Church, a former member and secretary of St. Joseph’s Church Women’s League, and a dedicated 12-year volunteer for the Bishop’s Fund Campaign.

She treasured time spent with family and friends, opening her pool each summer to nieces and nephews; vacations to Florida with John and MaryLou; Thanksgivings with Linda and Butch; crossword puzzles with her sister Irene; Christmas Eves shared between her sisters Ann and Irene’s homes; Cape Cod trips with friends; Foxwoods outings with nieces; trips to Saratoga; playing pitch; time with her “Cuzzie’s Cuties”; and attending every event and activity involving her grandchildren. Patricia was a wonderful woman whose life was devoted to family. Her generous heart, warm smile, and steady wisdom were gifts to all who knew her.

Calling hours will be held Thursday, January 29, 2026, from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel, 370 Plantation Street, Worcester. A procession will follow to Our Lady of Loreto Church, 37 Massasoit Road, where a Funeral Mass celebrating her Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow in Notre Dame Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Patricia’s name may be made to the Boston Children’s Hospital, 401 Park Drive, suite 602, Boston MA 02215. www.childrenshospital/org/donate.