Rosario Modesto

Rosario "Ron" Modesto, 82, of Concord, NC, passed away Thursday, February 19, 2026, at Tucker Hospice House in Kannapolis, NC.

Ron was born February 19, 1944, in Brooklyn, NY, to the late Salvatore Modesto and the late Mary Brancoto Modesto. He was also preceded in death by his daughter, Kristen Slone.

With deep love and lasting gratitude, we remember a devoted father whose life was defined by family, integrity, and a genuine desire to help others. Helived with purpose, consistency, and heart — and those qualities touched everyone who knew him.

He spent over 40 years doing what he truly loved: teaching. Passionate about education and committed to excellence, he not only shaped generations of students but also co-authored a college textbook, leaving a meaningful mark on his field. He was known for his punctuality and strong work ethic. He believed in doing things the right way, never cutting corners, always giving his very best.

Outside the classroom, he found joy in simple, beautiful things. He loved movies, the calming presence of the ocean, and good food — especially Italian. He enjoyed bike riding, landscaping and gardening, and spending quiet time reading. Whether outdoors or relaxing with a book, he appreciated life’s moments both big and small.

He was a steady presence, a generous spirit, and a true example of what it means to live with sincerity and care. He leaves behind a legacy of love, hard work, and unwavering dedication — to his family, his students, and everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Most of all, Ron was a loving husband, dad and grandpa. He will be forever loved and greatly missed.

Survivors include his beloved wife of 52 years, Barbara Nastasi Modesto of Concord, NC; son, Evan Modesto and wife, Jessica, five grandchildren, Katelyn Denninger, Nicoletta Denniger, Ella Modesto, Brooke Modesto and Brian Slone. He is also survived by his brother, Anthony Modesto and wife Barbara of Belport, NY and his sister, Vivian Tener and husband Terry of Garden City, NY

The family will receive friends from 1:00 pm - 2:45 pm, Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at Hartsell Funeral Home of Harrisburg, NC. The funeral service will follow at 3:00 pm in the funeral home chapel, officiated by Deacon Mark Nash. The service will be webcast.

A graveside committal will be held at 10:00 am on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at St. Patrick Cemetery, Huntington, NY. Since Ron will be laid to rest beside his daughter in New York, the family is requesting cemetery flowers be sent to M.A. Connell Funeral Home, 934 New York Ave., Huntington Station, NY. If you wish to send flowers to the family in North Carolina, we kindly ask that arrangements be limited to a small bouquet in a vase. These will be used to lovingly adorn the visitation and service at Hartsell Funeral Home of Harrisburg.

Hartsell Funeral Home of Harrisburg is serving the Modesto family.