Nancy Traina (née Arzooyan)

Nancy, age 89, of Fox Chapel, PA, passed away on June 22, 2026. She was the beloved wife of John Traina, with whom she would have celebrated 62 years of marriage this July; loving mother of Karin (Joel Petty) and Andrew (“Andy”) Traina, who preceded her in death in 1988, and proud grandmother of Zaya Petty. Nancy was the daughter of the late Zaroohi (DerAgopian) and John Arzooyan. She was the loving sister of the late Alice, Dorothy, Blanche, and John. She is also survived by her nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

Nancy was born in Providence, Rhode Island, the youngest of five children in a strong Armenian family. Nancy was an accomplished student. She attended the University of Rhode Island, where she earned her bachelor’s degree, graduating magna cum laude, and later completed her master’s degree in education. As a young woman, Nancy spent her summers working in Cape Cod and Maine—places filled with memories and friendships that stayed with her throughout her life.

She began her career as an English and history teacher, educating students in Rhode Island and then New Jersey for many years. Later, while raising her children, she taught night classes in Pittsburgh. After teaching, Nancy went on to a successful career in real estate, where her natural warmth and ability to connect with people helped her build a trusted reputation.

Nancy and John met in Rhode Island, where their shared love of music and dancing first blossomed, a spark that would carry through their life together. After marrying, they spent several years in New Jersey before moving to Pittsburgh in 1972. Throughout their marriage, Nancy was a steady, supportive force, offering encouragement and perspective through John’s graduate studies and later as he built his own company. She and John built a life filled with laughter and shared passions. They loved the arts, especially jazz and opera. They were known for their effortless, joyful dancing and could light up any room when the music started.

Nancy embraced her adopted city of Pittsburgh wholeheartedly, enthusiastically cheering on its sports teams and quickly getting involved in the community. In Glenshaw, she became active in the neighborhood and soon found a wonderful circle of friends whose warmth and humor grew into lifelong friendships. Nancy volunteered over the years as a crisis hotline responder and as a support minister through her church, offering empathy to those navigating difficult times. She was also an active member of Pittsburgh’s Armenian community, staying closely connected to her heritage and serving for a time as president of the Armenian American Club. In addition, Nancy and John supported several children’s charitable causes in Armenia. Throughout her life, Nancy gave her time and talents to organizations she cared about, serving on the boards of the Pittsburgh Opera, Saltworks Theatre Company, and Penn State Greater Allegheny advisory, among others. Her support of the resident artists at the Pittsburgh Opera particularly brought her joy and formed special lifelong bonds.

Above all, Nancy was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. Her warmth and laughter shaped countless memories that will be held close by all who loved her. She will be deeply missed.

Arrangements by Eloise B. Kyper Funeral Home. Friends and family will be received Monday, June 29th, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Eloise B. Kyper Funeral Home, Inc., 2702 Mt. Royal Blvd. Glenshaw, PA 15116. A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, June 30th, 2026, at 10:30 AM at Fox Chapel Presbyterian Church, 384 Fox Chapel Rd, Pittsburgh, PA 15238, Pastor Cheryl Khyllep to officiate. Interment to follow at Mt. Royal Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Pittsburgh Opera, Penn State Greater Allegheny, or the Persad Center.