Elmont School Board President Ragona dies

Elmont School Board President Frank Ragona died Wednesday, stricken by an apparent heart attack. He was 51 years old.

Ragona, who had just begun his second term as board president, had lived in Elmont for more than 20 years.

He grew up in nearby Floral Park, and attended Martin Van Buren High School. His dedication to the lives of others — something that has been well documented — came through in his first career choice when he became an Emergency Medical Technician. He later became a phlebotomist at Long Island Jewish Hospital, and eventually worked with New York Blood Services.

In his career as an Elmont administrator, he made a distinct mark. He was elected in 2006, and became president of the board in 2008. He rose to that position after serving two years each as president of the Covert Avenue and Sewanhaka High School PTA's. He was busy most recently making preparations for the district's Thanksgiving festivities.

His death came as a shock to everyone in Elmont who knew him, as Ragona was a well-regarded and active member of the community. Ragona was a staple at community events — especially school events — and was a strong advocate for local children.

"He was so involved in so many organizations, and was a wonderful board president," said Colum Nugent, a friend and attorney for the Elmont School District.

In a statement released by the district, Ragona's colleagues said he was "a born leader. He dedicated his life to the Elmont community. His infectious smile and 'can do' attitude warmed the hearts of all who knew him and who had the privilege to serve with him."

As the community learned of Ragona's passing, outpourings of grief were common as people worked to console one another.

Pat Nicolosi, a close friend, said the loss of Ragona was a gut-wrenching blow to the community.

"I felt like my heart was ripped out of my chest yesterday; it's a huge loss to the community," Nicolosi said. "You just don't replace a loss like Frank Ragona."

State Sen. Craig Johnson (D-Garden City) said the loss would be deeply felt.

"Frank was one of the good guys," Johnson said. "He believed in Elmont and worked tirelessly on behalf of his community and its children. The Elmont School Board, Elmont's civic community, and Nassau County as a whole lost a true champion who I will miss very much."

Nicolosi said that it would be a long time before Elmont saw as dedicated a community leader again.

"This community didn't just lose a civic leader and school board president, it lost a family member," he said. "He was so enthusiastic about everything. Living in Elmont and knowing Frank Ragona, you can't look at anything without seeing his face."

Ragona is survived by his wife Rosalie, his daughter Francesca and son Matthew.

This is a developing story, more information, including funeral arrangements, will be posted when available.