Adeline J. Duncko

POLAND - Adeline J. "Babe" Duncko, left us peacefully on November 29, 2025, at the age of 99.

Born Carmela Adelina Adornato on November 7, 1926, in Youngstown, she lived a fulfilling life marked by compassion, dedication, and a profound commitment to the wellbeing of others.

After graduating from Woodrow Wilson High School in 1944, Babe pursued her lifelong passion for nursing, earning her degree from St. Elizabeth Hospital School of Nursing in 1947. Throughout her career, she provided care and comfort across various hospitals in the area, ultimately retiring from Dr. Simon Chiasson's office.

A charter member of Holy Family Church, Babe actively participated in her faith community, strengthening her ties with fellow parishioners. She was also a proud member of the St. Elizabeth Hospital School of Nursing Alumni Association, the St. Elizabeth Auxiliary, and the Youngstown Council of Catholic Nurses. In her retirement, Babe selflessly volunteered at St. Elizabeth Boardman Hospital, where she greeted visitors at the front desk and delivered flowers to patients, always with a warm smile and a kind word.

Babe is survived by her devoted son, Mark (Dr. Terri) Duncko of Boardman; granddaughter, Tracey Duncko of Akron; and many nieces and nephews.

Babe was preceded in death by her parents, George and Serene Seminara Adornato; her husband, Steve Duncko whom she married October 8, 1949 and passed away May 3, 2018; a sister, Nancy Dodds; an infant sister, Eleanora; and a brother, Dr. Sam Adornato.

Family and friends may pay their respects from 9 to 10:30 AM on Thursday at Higgins-Reardon Funeral Homes, Poland Chapel, 2726 Center Road, where the Nightingale Service will be held at 10:20 AM with the Nurse Honor Guard of Eastern Ohio.

A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11 AM on Thursday at Holy Family Church. Burial will take place at Poland RIverside Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Holy Family Church, 2729 Center Road, Poland, Ohio 44514 or the American Cancer Society, www.cancer.org