Linda Locantore was recently selected as the 2026 Patchogue Italian-American of the Year, proudly sharing this recognition with her brother Michael, honoree in 2010, and her late father Leonard, honoree in 2011.

She will march as such in the St. Liberata parade to take place on Saturday, Sept. 26.

According to organizers, she was selected because of her lifelong dedication to education and community, Linda exemplifies the spirit of Patchogue.She is a testament to how roots, hard work, and the love for one’s hometown can create a legacy of service and pride.

Linda grew up in Patchogue with deep Italian roots.The daughter of Josephine (Dragone) and Leonard Locantore, she was raised alongside her brother’s, Lenny and Michael.Linda’s maternal and paternal grandparents came from the same region in Italy and settled in Patchogue.Linda’s Italian roots has stayed with her, nothing captures the heart of Italian heritage quite like a pot of sauce simmering on the stove on a Sunday morning.

Linda was a Kindergarten Teacher at Bay Elementary. After retiring in 2009, she returned in 2010 as a member of the Committee of Preschool Special Education.In 2020, Linda was honored as the Patchogue-Medford 50-year graduate following in the footsteps of her parents, who received the same honor in 1993 and her brother, Michael in 2023.

After retirement, Linda fully immersed herself in community service.In 2010, she joined the Patchogue Foundation Cultural Heritage Committee to revive the beloved Italian Feast of St. Liberata, this time it would take place on Main Street. The Locantore Family has participated in this historic feast for three generations.

Linda served in several roles on the committee, becoming the chairperson in 2018.Alongside leading this summer tradition, in 2019, Linda was chosen to co-chair the Our Lady of Mount Carmel 100thAnniversary, honoring a century of Christ, Community and Charity.She also was co-chair in the parish’s annual St. Nicholas Christmas Festival for children and involved with various other fundraising events.Most recently, Linda was honored to serve her parish as an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion, a role that reflects her deep faith and ongoing commitment to her church and community.

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