Roberta C. Nicoll Obituary
Roberta "Birdie" (Gleitsmann) (Hardy) Nicoll, 84, of Topsfield, passed away on August 3, 2025 at Beverly Hospital following a brief illness.
Born in Malden on November 6, 1940 to Robert and Muriel Gleitsmann, Roberta was raised and educated in Malden, a graduate of Malden High School, class of 1958. She went on to attend Salem State University, earning her degree in Criminal Justice magna cum laude, which she was very proud of. She worked with precision at Raytheon and Analogic and later as a tax preparer with H&R Block. She was an active member of the Northshore Unitarian Universalist Church in Danvers, where she cherished her writing group and community.
Roberta was known for her deep love of family, her curiosity about ancestry, and her joy in travel, birding, games, and meaningful conversation. An avid reader and creative soul, she enjoyed making art, cheering on her beloved Boston sports teams, and staying engaged with world events. She brought laughter, warmth, and a generous spirit to everyone who knew her.
Roberta was predeceased by her husbands, Robert Hardy and Doug Nicoll, her brother David and his wife Eleanor. She is also predeceased by her longtime friend, Barbara Carlson. She is survived by her beloved daughters Debra (Kenny) White and Diane Atkinson; her grandchildren Benjamin (Jessica) Russell, Melissa (Carl) Nystedt, Jessica (Derek) Foland, Matthew (Kate) Atkinson, Natasha White, Nathan White, and Cassandra Pinkham; and her great-grandchildren Eliot, Simon, Henry, Grace, and James. She also leaves her dear sister Charlene.
ARRANGEMENTS: Friends and relatives are invited to Roberta's memorial service to be held on Friday, August 8, 2025 at 4P.M. at the Northshore Unitarian Universalist Church, 323 Locust St, Danvers, MA, officiated by Rev. Caro Barschow, followed by a reception. Visiting hours will be held at O'Donnell Cremations-Funerals-Celebrations, 167 Maple Street, Danvers on Thursday, August 7, 2025 from 4P.M. until 7P.M. Her ashes will be scattered in the church's memorial garden. All are welcome. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Roberta's memory to the Parkinson's Foundation, 5757 Waterford District Drive, Suite 310, Miami FL 33126 or at http://www.parkinson.org.
