Elisabeth (Daudigeos) Nicola

Elisabeth Nicola (born Daudigeos) passed away in her home of 57 years on Wednesday, June 7, at the age of 99. Born and raised in Morcenx, France, she would move to America to eventually arrive in Joliet where she raised her five children.

She will be remembered by her family and friends for her zest for life, her passion for cooking and gardening, her devotion to the French culture, her knowledge of the political and social landscape, her appreciation for good friends, and her unwavering love for her family.

Elisabeth’s strength and perseverance created a foundation for success for her children and grandchildren. She was a shining light in all of their lives and meant so much to them in so many ways. Her love and support are something they will always cherish.

Every morning, you could find Elisabeth drinking her café au lait, enjoying her garden and watching the birds flock to her feeders. She loved reading books, including autobiographies and topics such as the culinary arts and the history of France. She brought French cooking into her home, making favorites like piperade, crepes and Pâté. And she met some of her closest friends in a local French club.

Elisabeth made sure to pass her heritage onto her children, traveling with them to France several times and hosting her French family in America so both could experience the French and American cultures.

Elisabeth is survived by her sister: Simone Daudigeos; her four children, sons: Henry and Mark Nicola and daughters: Caroline Sciolino (Doug) and Valerie Nicola (Larry Juricic); her 14 grandchildren: Henry John, Matthew, Tyler, Morgan, Justine, Heather, Haley, Chloe, Courtney, Aaron, Tessa, Taylor, Tara and Luke; her eight great-grandchildren: Allison, Hayden, Jeremiah, Jakob, Gabriel, Benjamin, Emma and Owen; and her many nieces and nephews in France.

Elisabeth is preceded in death by her daughter: Kathryn Mathews who was waiting by her side to guide her to the glorious garden in heaven where she will be reunited with many family and friends. Our sincere thanks to all who supported Elisabeth and her family during this time.

Per Elisabeth’s wishes, cremation rites have been accorded.

A memorial visitation will be held on Thursday, June 15, 2023 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Tezak Funeral Home, 1211 Plainfield Road in Joliet. A funeral Mass will be held the following day, Friday, June 16, at 10:00 a.m. at Holy Family Catholic Church, 600 Brook Forest Ave in Shorewood.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be directed in Elisabeth’s name to Lightways Hospice Care at www.lightways.org .