Kathleen was born in Oswego, New York, to Peter and Jean Okoniewski. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Mark Okoniewski.
She is survived by her husband, Joseph Pagano; her two children, Nicholas and Shannon; her three grandchildren, Shawn, Giana, and Magdalena; her brother, Mike; and her sister, Linda.
Kathleen earned her Bachelor of Arts in English from SUNY Oswego and devoted her entire professional career to the universityโs Financial Aid Office. She began working there as a student intern while in college and went on to retire as Assistant Director of Financial Aid. Her career reflected her loyalty and deep care for helping students navigate important moments in their lives.
Kathleen loved spending time with her family, gardening, laughing, observing wildlife, and going on adventures. She believed in magic and had a way of finding it in everyday moments. She will be remembered for her warm, open heart and contagious smile, which made people feel welcome and at ease.
A service will be held at Thomas B. Dobies Funeral Home in Port Richey, Florida, on December 18 at 5:00 p.m.
A memorial service will also be held in Oswego, New York, in the spring or summer of 2026, with details to follow.
Kathleen will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
Ann Losurdo
December 24, 2025, 8:01 pm
Sending my deepest condolences to all of you. While I hadnโt seen Kathy in quite a few years, we went all through Kingsford Park, high school, and college together. I have the fondest memories of her kind ways and beautiful smile. Rest in peace with the angels, Kathy. ๐ชฝ
Jack Mazur
December 26, 2025, 4:36 pm
So sorry to hear this news. Kathy and I were neighbors and childhood friends, through elementary school together and high school. Many fond memories of growing up in Oswego. Prayers to her family ๐.
Linda Shapiro
December 26, 2025, 7:55 pm
My condolences to Kathleen’s Family on her passing.
May her memory be a blessing. ๐
Virge Doviak Toepp
December 26, 2025, 8:41 pm
Such shocking news of my dear friend. So many happy memories. Prayers for your entire family
Teresa Ferlito
December 26, 2025, 8:49 pm
So very sorry to hear of her passing. Sincere sympathy to Kathy’s family. Rest in peace.๐๐ป
Dorsthy Brown
December 27, 2025, 12:10 am
My sincere condolences to the family. Kathy and I go way back starting in high school then working together at Oswego State. Lots of laughs and memories. My love and prayers go out to you all. Dorathy Axtell Brown. ๐๐๐๐๐
Mary Audlin
December 29, 2025, 8:44 pm
Iโm heart broken to hear about this. I loved Kathy very much. It didnโt matter how long we had between visits, it always felt like yesterday. I will miss her very much. Please know you are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Joseph McGrath
December 30, 2025, 11:40 pm
Dear Joe and family,I am so sorry to hear of your loss. My prayers and thoughts are with you. God Bless.
Robert Clark
December 31, 2025, 2:55 am
So sorry to hear this. Many fond memories of Kathy. Love and peace to the family