KRISTINA M. (BAGOZZI) SOKOLIC

Kristina Marie (Bagozzi) Sokolic, fondly known as “Tina,” took her final breath on Tuesday May 6, 2025. Precisely fifty-nine years from the day she entered this world, Tina peacefully departed to a place of eternal rest. Tina was a beloved daughter, cherished wife, dedicated mother, endearing sister, esteemed colleague, and revered educator. Tina was born May 6, 1966, to Arthur and Kathleen (Haley) Bagozzi—their firstborn. Tina grew up close in age to her younger sister, Stacey. She became the oldest of three children when her brother, Jamie, was born years later. Throughout high school, Tina was an avid cheerleader. She also had an affinity for art, fashion, and photography. Upon graduating from high school, Tina pursued multiple degrees, ultimately achieving her master’s degree in education. Tina went on to have an impressive thirty-five-year long career as a teacher. She spent most of those years teaching in the Syracuse City School District. On April 15, 1994, Tina married her husband, John. In 1997, they welcomed their daughter, Olivia, and in 2002 son, Joshua. One word to describe Tina: heart. Tina was the heart of her family. She devoted her heart to her husband of thirty-one years and, together, they brought life into the world. Tina could often be found in the heart of the home—the kitchen. Food was a form of connection for her; a plate of food meant the chance to come together. Tina poured her heart and soul into her children. If not in the kitchen, Tina could be found in the horse barn or at the racetrack, watching her children do what they delighted in. To know she provided for her children filled her heart far more than anything else. Tina’s heart for teaching touched the lives of hundreds, if not thousands, of students over her career. She believed in the potential of every student she encountered. Tina opened hearts and minds to great possibilities; her lessons were beyond any curriculum and would last her students a lifetime. Tina was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2017 and re-diagnosed in 2023. She led her fight against cancer with distinguished character and a courageous heart. While fighting for her own life, she became an advocate and ally for those who fought before her and alongside her. In her heart, Tina always hoped for a miracle; she fought for a better tomorrow. Tina’s heart is her legacy. Her pulse on life will continue to beat and live on through those who were fortunate to know her. At Tina’s request, services were privately held for family at BAGOZZI TWINS FUNERAL HOME, Solvay. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Tina’s memory to St. Agatha Foundation at https://www.saintagathafoundation.org/. Please share online tributes and memories at www.bagozzitwins.com.

KRISTINA M. (BAGOZZI) SOKOLIC

May 6, 1966 - May 6, 2025