A. Barbara (Costantini) Coyne

A. Barbara Costantini Coyne, PhD, MSN, age 91, of Highland Park passed away peacefully on Tuesday, November 9, 2021 at Vincentian Marian Manor, with her best and oldest friend Dr. Kathy Sullivan and newest friend Terry Stacey at her side.  She was born December 5, 1929 in Dubois, PA to the late Michael and Anna (Federici) Costantini.   Beloved wife of the late Gerard Coyne; sister of Mufaldo “Muffin” Costantini, the late Mary Costantini, Armelina Costantini and Tony Costantini. She is also survived by her faithful and loving feline companion Julie “JuJu”. She was a graduate of St. Francis Hospital School of Nursing where she earned her diploma in Nursing. Barbara then received a BSN Degree from the University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing and her MSN Degree from Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing at Case Western University. She furthered her education by receiving her PhD at the University of Pittsburgh in Higher Education. She worked with the late Senator John Heinz and others on the establishment of the Community Gerontology Center at Braddock Hospital.  She also taught at several colleges and universities including Rutgers University, Carlow (College) University, and Loyola and an Associate Dean at Duquesne University School of Nursing and Division Chair and professor of nursing at LaRoche College (University). She was a well-known grief counselor and she worked out of her office, The Dwelling Place, located in East Liberty. She facilitated grief groups in East Pittsburgh, Munhall, East McKeesport, Forest Hills and at many local churches and organizations. Barbara was most proud of publishing her book You Don’t Have to Like It… But You Have to Live It. Those who knew Barbara well will always remember her saying “Pay attention to what comes after the but”. Barbara was a kind, supportive, compassionate straight shooter who always told it like it was. She was an animal lover and cared for many stray cats over her life. She also enjoyed boating on the three rivers with husband Gerard in their boat Aurora II. She will be dearly missed by all who were fortunate to have known her and she will live on in our hearts forever. A special thanks is extended to the staff of Vincentian Marian Manor, in particular the nurses and staff who cared for Barbara with such respect, skill and compassion.  As per her wishes there is no viewing and interment is private.  Donations in Barbara’s memory may be made to the Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh, 6926 Hamilton Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15208 or www.humaneanimalrescue.org. Arrangements entrusted to SCHEPNER-McDERMOTT FUNERAL HOME, INC. 165 Noble Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15205.  Condolence messages may be left at www.schepnermcdermottfh.com.