(PRESS RELEASE) PITTSBURGH, PA — Henne Jewelers is deeply saddened to share that long-time team member Nina Pugliese has passed away after a courageous battle with brain cancer. A beloved member of the Henne Jewelers family for more than 46 years, Nina left an indelible mark on the Pittsburgh community, her colleagues, and the luxury jewelry industry.
Nina Pugliese
Joining Henne Jewelers in 1978 at just 18 years old, Nina began her career in sales under third-generation owner Jack Henne. She often credited Jack with teaching her everything she knew. Rising through the business, Nina became one of Henne’s top sales associates, a trusted jewelry buyer, and a gifted designer. She was instrumental in helping countless couples choose engagement rings and guiding generations of customers in finding pieces to celebrate life’s most meaningful moments.
Over the decades, Nina’s contributions extended far beyond sales. She designed Henne’s in-store displays year-round, curated jewelry collections as a buyer traveling nationwide, and created innumerable custom designs for customers. She also crafted thousands of pieces under her signature line, Exclusively by Nina, sold only at Henne Jewelers. Her artistry, eye for quality, and devotion to customers set a standard of excellence that shaped the store’s identity.
Beyond her professional achievements, Nina will be remembered for her vibrant personality and generous spirit. She could always be counted on to greet team members, vendors, and customers with a smile. She devoted herself to causes close to her heart, supporting children in third-world countries as well as local charities and ministries. Her faith was central to her life, and she lived it with grace, kindness, and joy.
“Nina wasn’t just a colleague; she was family,” said John G. Henne, fourth-generation owner of Henne Jewelers. “Her legacy is woven into the very fabric of our business. She touched thousands of lives with her warmth, her talent, and her faith. Nina would spontaneously burst into song, style your jewelry in a way that made you feel extraordinary, share a dessert with you (she had quite a sweet tooth), or simply listen as you shared what was on your heart. We will forever be grateful for the love she poured into Henne Jewelers and into our customers.”
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