This fund honors two devoted educators who served the Wakefield community for decades and shared deep, lifelong ties to the town.
Sharon Zagaria, daughter of Joseph L. Pothier and Margaret A. (Beane) Pothier, taught first grade and kindergarten at the Walton, Doyle, and West Ward schools, as well as fifth-grade science at the Galvin Middle School. Throughout her career, Sharon wrote and secured numerous educational grants benefiting Wakefield students and was actively involved in Watershed Awareness, which in partnership with New England Discovery, received a State Award in Environmental Education. She also took a lifelong interest in her students’ success, sending congratulatory letters to former students upon their high school graduation.
Patsy Zagaria, son of Pasquale Zagaria, Sr. and Sylvia (Rufo) Zagaria, was a longtime music teacher, band leader, and beloved mentor who taught piano and organ to countless Wakefield residents. Patsy Zagaria’s Orchestra was among the most popular dance bands in the region, and he played weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, school dances, proms and clubs. A proud veteran, Patsy served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War from 1952 to 1954 and was later honored with the Ambassador for Freedom Award for his service.
In 2025, the Town of Wakefield formally honored Patsy, choosing him to serve as Grand Marshal of the town’s Fourth of July Parade. He was also highlighted at the 2025 Veterans Day ceremony, where he played piano accompanied by his daughter, musician and soloist Dr. Holly Zagaria.
Members of Bear Hill Golf Club, both Sharon and Patsy were avid and accomplished golf and tennis players.
Patsy and Sharon were married for 53 years until Sharon’s passing in 2017. They are the parents of Jeffrey, Holly, and John Zagaria, and the grandparents of Rose Conway and Nicholas and Madeline Zagaria.
Scholarship Recipients
Recipient information for this fund will appear here as it becomes available.