Vincent F. “Vinny” Picardi, age 92, a longtime Quincy resident and former Braintree resident, passed away, Tuesday, September 24, 2024 surrounded by his loving family. He was the beloved husband of the late Nina (Coletti) Picardi and son of the late George and Emily Picardi of Braintree. Vincent is also predeceased by his siblings, Florence, George, and Joseph Picardi.

While in high school and throughout his college years, Vincent worked at Saint Francis of Assisi Church in Braintree.

He was an accomplished athlete, participating in many sports. He graduated from Braintree High School in 1951 as captain of the first undefeated football team and received the All-Scholastic Award. After receiving a scholarship to play football, Vincent went on to graduate from Boston University in 1955.

He started his teaching career, first in Athol, Massachusetts. He later earned a master’s degree from Bridgewater State University and attended Boston University for advanced graduate study. Vincent dedicated his career to education, serving as a teacher and Director of Chapter 1 in the Braintree school system for over thirty-eight years. Vin was a member of the Massachusetts Teachers Association.
He also coached and worked for the Quincy and Braintree Recreation Department. As a science teacher, he received grants from the National Science Foundation to attend Colgate University, Northeastern University, and Bridgewater State College. Vin was later inducted into the Braintree Hall of Fame, Captain of South Shore All- Scholastic Football.

Vinny had many passions and a curious mind. He placed a great value on the importance of education. He was an avid gardener and collected baseball cards and stamps. He was drawn to the study of world religions, educating himself to foster greater understanding and appreciation for them.

He also spent hours teaching himself to write and speak Italian, Latin and Greek. He was proud of his Italian heritage and spread the joy of his traditions to his family and friends.

As a geology/science teacher, he had a great interest in rocks and rock formations. His children fondly remember doing science experiments with him at the kitchen table when they were small.

He enjoyed watching sports, especially football, and took pride in watching his grandchildren play sports and various other activities.

Many would seek out his advice and many considered him their mentor, providing guidance, support, and sharing his wisdom in various aspects of life, from good nutrition, career choices, education, and spiritual growth.

A deeply spiritual man, he read the Bible daily and possessed tremendous faith, inspiring those around him with his kindness, compassion, and strong values.

He was hardworking, generous in spirit, and devoted to his family. He was the best Papa to his grandchildren and was excited to take on his new title of great-grandpapa to Henry.

With unwavering dedication, he taught his family the significance of embracing tolerance, acceptance, and appreciation for the beauty in everyday life. He led by example, living a life of gratitude and humility, always acknowledging and cherishing the blessings that filled his life. He never took anything for granted.

After retirement, Vincent and his beloved wife Nina enjoyed traveling, taking long rides, walking and volunteering.

Vincent is survived by his devoted children, Vincent Picardi Jr. of Abington, MaryAnne (Kevin) Jago, Kathleen E. Picardi-Bandera, John C. Picardi, all of Quincy, and Amelia (Robert) Murray of Hingham. He is also survived by his loving grandchildren, Vincent and Emily Picardi of Abington, Courtney and Kevin Jago, and his wife, Chelsea (great-grandfather to Henry ) of Quincy, Nina Bandera of Quincy, and Robert and Jacqueline Murray of Hingham. He is also survived by his first cousin, Francis Ialenti, and sister-in-law, Dianna (Coletti) Picardi, both of Braintree.

At Vincent’s request, funeral services and interment took place privately.

For those who wish, donations in Vincent’s memory may be made to the Daughters of Mary of Nazareth, P.O. Box 690789, Quincy, MA 02269.