Obituary published on Legacy.com by Shikany's Bonita Funeral Home on Mar. 19, 2025.
With heavy hearts, we share the passing of Isabelle Emma Harrington, beloved wife, mother, grandma, and friend.
Isabelle was born on June 29, 1955, in Amityville, NY, to the late Edmond and Raffaela "Ella" (Geraci) Fucci and grew up in Bethpage, NY. The summer she turned 22 she met a young marine vet who was visiting his family after he had moved to Alaska. Sparks flew, and Isabelle surprised everyone as she – a well-known rule-follower – announced she was heading off to Alaska with Mike.
Isabelle and Mike built their lives in McGrath, AK, and made sure to provide everything their children needed to grow up in a safe and loving home. Isabelle obtained her degree in rural development through distance learning at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, while working as a business manager for the Iditarod Area School District. She didn't just tell her children about morals, values, and hard work. She exemplified these every day in her own life.
One of the kindest people any of us will ever have the pleasure of meeting, Isabelle would go out of her way to display kindness and help to all those around her. She thought of everyone else first, and herself last. Humble and modest as they come, Isabelle would probably cringe at the thought of a long list of her accomplishments, yet we would be remiss to not share how much good she put out into the world.
As a passionate advocate for her community, Isabelle helped found the Kuskokwim Public Broadcasting (KSKO) and McGrath Broadcasting Company. She devoted over 45 years of her life to volunteering in various capacities with KSKO, ensuring that the voice of her community was heard. Isabelle was a pillar of her local parish, St. Michael Catholic Church in McGrath, AK, where she was an active member and volunteer. She also generously offered her time with the United Way, providing volunteer tax services to those in need. Upon her retirement, Isabelle did everything but sit and relax. She maintained a packed agenda, which included volunteering, bingo, bowling, Mah Jong, quilting, card games, and the "noodle club".
Upon learning about her cancer diagnosis two years ago, she left no stone unturned; determined to seek treatment that would allow her to spend as much time as she could with her loved ones – she refused to go a day too soon. In her last days she still managed to keep her sense of humor and surprised her family with her quick wit.
Isabelle passed on March 16, 2025, at her home in Bonita Springs surrounded by her family, furbabies, and countless heartfelt cards and stunning flower arrangements her loved ones sent in the days leading up.
She is survived by her beloved husband of 45 years, Michael C. Harrington; her loving children, Christine Harrington of McGrath, AK, and Michael P. (Gaby Alvarado) Harrington of Dumfries, VA; her favorite (and only) grandson, Benjamin Harrington; and her pups Rocky and Sadie. Isabelle was also preceded in death by her brothers, Edmond Fucci and Carl Fucci.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, March 21, 2025, at 10:00 AM at St. Leo the Great Catholic Church, 28300 Beaumont Road,
Bonita Springs, FL 34134.
A Memorial Mass will also be held in McGrath, AK, at a later date and will be announced.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Cafe of Life, Inc. at https://cafeoflife.org/donate/ or Sally Jo Collins Museum P.O. Box 236 McGrath, AK 99627.
Online condolences may be offered by visiting www.ShikanyFuneralHome.com.
Arrangements are being handled by Shikany's Bonita Funeral Home, Family Owned Since 1978.
Isabelle will live forever in our hearts, thank you for the memories.