Najat Nicola's Obituary
In Loving Memory of Najat Saliba Nicola December 4, 1952 – July 16, 2025
With full hearts and deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Najat Saliba Nicola, a beloved wife, devoted mother, cherished Teta, sister, mother-in-law, sister-in-law, and friend, who left this world peacefully on July 16, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family.
Najat was the heart of the Nicola family. Born in Lebanon to the late Nassif and Adma Saliba, she carried with her a rich heritage of resilience, warmth, and deep familial devotion. Alongside her husband, Nick Nicola Jr., she built a beautiful life rooted in love and faith in Danville, California, where they raised their three children, Mark, Kristin, and Kimberly.
A woman of many talents, Najat was an accomplished artist who painted striking watercolors with skill and precision. She also had an incredible eye for beauty and design, which she expressed through her floral work and the vibrant garden she nurtured with care. Her home bloomed with color and intention — a reflection of her meticulous nature and deep appreciation for life’s small wonders. She was a warm and patient teacher to many, nurturing those around her with kindness and gentle encouragement.
Najat was a woman of substance, strength, and boundless grace. Her presence brought comfort, and her love radiated through every home-cooked meal, every thoughtful gesture, and every selfless act. Whether through her stories, her laughter, or her unwavering support, she made everyone around her feel deeply valued and truly cherished.
She was also involved in her community as an active member of St. John Antiochian Orthodox Church in Orinda and the Diablo Women’s Garden Club, where she formed lifelong friendships.
She is survived by her loving husband, Nick; her children, Mark, Kristin, and Kimberly, and Kimberly’s husband, Anthony Bailey; and her cherished grandchildren, Hudson, Brie, and Julia. She is survived by her beloved sisters Amal Dalack, Bahaa Nasr, and Ghada Saliba-Malouf. Najat is preceded in death by her parents, Nassif and Adma Saliba, and her sister, Daad Shalhoub.
A celebration of Najat’s life will be held on Sunday, July 20, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. at the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Ascension, located at 4700 Lincoln Avenue in Oakland, California.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Najat’s memory to:
St John the Evangelist: https://stjohnorinda.org/contributions/
Bruns House for Hospice Care: https://www.hospiceeastbay.org/donations/Donations - Hospice East Bay
Though our hearts ache in her absence, Najat’s spirit will forever bloom in our memories — radiant, nurturing, and endlessly loved.
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