Nina Pugliese, who worked at Henne Jewelers for more than 46 years, died on Sept. 25 at the age of 65.
Pittsburgh, Penn.—Nina Pugliese, a longtime employee of Henne Jewelers in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, died Sept. 25 at the age of 65 due to brain cancer.
Pugliese joined the family-owned jeweler in 1978 at 18 years old, working in sales under the late third-generation jeweler Jack Henne.
She worked for the retailer for more than 46 years, rising through the ranks as a top sales associate, a jewelry buyer, and a designer.
Pugliese designed the jeweler’s in-store displays and curated jewelry collections in her role as a buyer, for which she traveled across the U.S.
She created custom designs for customers and also had her own signature line, “Exclusively by Nina,” sold only at Henne Jewelers.
Pugliese also lent her creative talents to interior and floral design, as per her online obituary.
“Her artistry, eye for quality, and devotion to customers set a standard of excellence that shaped the store’s identity,” said the company.
Pugliese is seen here behind the jewelry counter with (from left) John Henne, his mother Nancy Henne, and his father Jack Henne.
Pugliese is remembered for her vibrant personality and generous spirit. She always greeted her colleagues and customers with a smile, said the jeweler.
Outside of work, she devoted herself to charity causes, including supporting children and local charities and ministries.
“Her faith was central to her life, and she lived it with grace, kindness, and joy,” said the retailer.
John G. Henne, fourth-generation owner of Henne Jewelers, shared his memories of Pugliese.
“Nina wasn’t just a colleague; she was family,” he said. “Her legacy is woven into the very fabric of our business. She touched thousands of lives with her warmth, her talent, and her faith.
“Nina would spontaneously burst into song, style your jewelry in a way that made you feel extraordinary, share a dessert with you (she had quite a sweet tooth), or simply listen as you shared what was on your heart. We will forever be grateful for the love she poured into Henne Jewelers and into our customers.”
A celebration of life service will be held for Pugliese on Oct. 13 at 11 a.m. at Allison Park Church in Allison Park, Pennsylvania.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Samuel and Joan Pugliese. She is survived by her brothers David (Kate), Paul (Renee), Michael (Colleen), Samuel (Nancy) and Joey (Deeters), as well as her nieces, nephews, grand nieces, and grand nephews.
