Keith Linsalata

The Friends of Mercy are proud to honor Keith Linsalata with the Bishop John R. McGann Lifetime Achievement Award. A dedicated member of the Friends of Mercy for over 10 years, Keith has consistently contributed his time and expertise to numerous Friends committees, including the Mercy Ball and St. Patrick’s Dinner. Keith has been the proud owner of Art Flower; Gift Shoppe in Rockville Centre for the past 34 years. His involvement with the Friends goes beyond participation—Keith generously offers expert advice and works tirelessly to provide the most competitive prices in support of the Friends of Mercy’s mission. Always reliable and willing to lend a hand, Keith’s unwavering commitment makes him an invaluable asset to the Friends of Mercy.
A native of Massapequa, NY, Keith has been happily married to his wife, Laurie, for 44 years.
Together, they have raised three children—Andrew, Matthew, and Gregory—and are the proud grandparents of four: Olivia, Landon, Lucas, and Aiden. They also share their home with two beloved dogs, Bella the Yorkie and Lilly the Shorkie.
Keith is a graduate of Farmingdale State College, where he studied Agriculture. His career in floristry began as a delivery driver for a flower shop, eventually working his way up to manager of two locations. On November 5, 1991, Keith realized his dream by purchasing Art Flower & Gift Shoppe. With a strong work ethic, passion for quality, and dedication to 100% customer service, Keith has worked tirelessly to uphold the legacy of his shop, one of the oldest businesses in Rockville Centre, for a total of 87 years, even after facing a devastating fire.
For 34 years in Rockville Centre, Keith has been a loyal supporter of Mercy Hospital, contributing in various ways. He consistently participates in and sponsors all Friends of Mercy events, donated flowers for the children’s parties that were held every December for many years and provided floral arrangements for Mercy’s Gift Shop that were sold to customers. One of Keith’s most cherished projects is Pedal It Forward Day, held every October, when he and his team give away over 1,200 bouquets to spread goodwill throughout the community, especially to the nurses and patients at Mercy Hospital. He also is a regular blood donor at the hospital.
Furthermore, his business partner, Debbie Whitfield, was born at Mercy Hospital, as were her premature twins, who received excellent care in Mercy’s NICU.
Keith is deeply involved in his community through a wide range of initiatives, leading fundraisers like Blue Bow for fallen officers’ families, Gold Bow for childhood cancer, and Pink Bows for breast cancer awareness. He also hosts annual class trips for local schools. He has served on the board of the Nassau County Firefighters Museum and supports the Mary Brennan Inn, as well as his shop donates to over 25 local organizations including the Village of Rockville
Centre, the RVC Police, Molloy College, and the RVC Library. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Keith provided flower kits and virtual classes to connect students with teachers, and distributed thousands of palms for Palm Sunday.
Keith’s dedication to Mercy Hospital, his business and his community truly exemplifies the spirit of service and compassion and make him a worthy recipient of the Bishop John R. McGann Lifetime Achievement Award.