	On my brother William’s behalf, I would like to share another memory that we both hold dear in our hearts. Most summers and Christmases, Auntie Maria and Auntie Neddy would travel back to Vancouver to visit us for several weeks, and we counted down the days until they arrived and loathed their passing when they prepared to leave again. My brother and Auntie Maria had a very special connection, one that is tough to build and impossible to replicate. She cared for him like no other and had an impossible patience that most of us could only dream of having. William adored her and always wanted to spend every waking minute with her when we were lucky enough to have her visit or travel down to Florida. Several times, Auntie Maria and Auntie Neddy stayed with us in our basement, and as Auntie Maria loved to recount, every morning, she would hear William jump down from his bed as well as the patter of his feet as he ran from his room and down the stairs to jump into their bed. Auntie Maria always welcomed him with a hug, no matter how early it was. That is just the kind of person she was—warm-hearted, gentle, loving, and she went through life with those characteristics, radiating kindness and touching each person around her with her unwavering selflessness. So Auntie Maria, from one big sister to another, thank you for always loving and caring for my little brother.  
	When I reflect on these memories, I am struck by Auntie Maria’s genuine goodness. She was the best person I have ever, and will ever, know, and my brother and I feel so grateful to have had the privilege of calling her our aunt. The time she took with each of us truly meant the world. We love you Auntie Maria. 

	One of my favourite memories with Auntie Maria was when I was in seventh grade; it was June, and I was struggling to grasp a math concept that I needed for a test the next day. Lucky for me, Auntie Maria and Auntie Neddy were in town, and Auntie Maria offered to help walk me through everything that I needed to learn. We sat on the back deck of my house and spent over an hour going through all of the questions, and Auntie Maria explained each one to me with such gentleness and never made me feel unintelligent for struggling with such an easy concept (it was fractions). Once we were done, I understood it better than any other concept that whole year, and I felt so blessed to have the privilege of learning from someone that was so meant to be a teacher. Auntie Maria was a teacher in every sense of the word; she truly embodied every characteristic that makes a remarkable educator, and the impact she made on my life in that moment when she took the time with me only represents a fraction of the impact that she had on the lives of her many, many students, all of whom were so incredibly lucky to have her to guide them. Thank you, Auntie Maria, for showing me what it means to be a teacher, and when I eventually have my own students, I know you will be looking down on me. I can only hope to be half the teacher you were. 

Love, 

Livs 

This is the poem I read at Maria's memorial service.  It embodies everything that Maria was.



Dearest Ned,

The first time you introduced me to Maria, I felt her deep love for you and her open heart to any and all who loved you . I loved her instantly just like I did you those oh so many years ago at UBC . 

Maria made you smile from the deepest parts of her soul and as she did it warmed us too . I felt so blessed to not only know that you were so loved but to witness it too . My beloved Ned , so tenderly cared for . It makes my heart melt all over again to remember .  While  I only got to be with Maria a couple of times,  it didn’t matter at all . It felt like a forever friendship and I know I am richer for it . 
Her smile wide , her love unfailing .  I can feel her now . 
Harry too was captured by her . He too could feel her heart and we have talked about the love the two of you shared many times with giggles and smiles and warmth . Pure joy . 

Today your heart is heavy and it will be so for a long while . When my dad died, my uncle , a grief counsellor , told me to talk about dad and talk and talk and talk.  It was so helpful because I worried that I would become tedious around others . It’s been 11 years and I’m still talking about him ! Calling  on him , finding things to ask him about because I forgot he was gone . Dear Ned , let’s talk about Maria every chance we get ! 

I’m sending you love  across the miles and when you get here, I’ll wrap you up in it all over again . It has always been this way and ever will be . You are my dearest Ned . I love you so . 
Deb Grimm 

Maria had such a calm and comforting nature. She truly had a counselor’s heart. I feel her spirit  in every bird that soars, glides and wades. Maria was a gift to us on earth. Elle and I miss her! 

As I read the memories of Maria’s students, friends and colleagues, one thing comes to mind.  I don’t think she realized how deeply she effected so many people.  It was not unusual to be in a store, supermarket or park and meet up with someone who knew her.  What surprised me was how she remembered them as if they had been together yesterday.  Her inner serenity and sincere interest in others is what enabled her to touch so many lives.  To her she was just being herself and nothing more.  She was one of a kind.   

Dr. Sciaino meant so much to my daughters who attended Lake Mary High School.  We were the lucky ones to have the last name beginning with the letter K.  That was Maria's section of letters!
Thank you Dr. Sciaino, you made an impression on 2 teens as I am sure you did for many other teens.


Maria graced our lives with her character and humanity.  She was a gentle soul who inspired us with her faith, optimism and resilience. I have fond memories of sharing our faith and being thankful for God’s presence in our lives and trusting in his sovereignty. I know Maria was at peace because of her deep conviction and faith in God.

Maria, thank you for blessing Bry and me with your friendship!

Neddy, sending you much love and deepest condolences. 

Dearest Maria, 

My heart is broken that you are gone before I was able to tell you how much you meant to me when we were in high school at Colonial. You were so smart,  and focused,  and so NOT intimidated by any body in the band.  You inspired me... and I've always wanted to say thank you.  Rest in peace...☮️💜🎵
Julie Delcamp Judd
Class of 1980


I will forever remember Maria for her beauty and grace as she went through this complicated journey called life.  To love in its true simplicity in the meaning of love. I will remember Maria’s legacy to simply love one another without judgement and expectations but with patience, kindness and understanding. Thank you Maria for being my teacher.  Your spirit and voice forever in my heart and forever in Furry Creek.  

I love you.

Always, Anita

I owe a lot to Dr. S. She was my guidance counsellor throughout high school. If it  weren’t for her and a handful of other individuals at HHS, I wouldn’t be where I am today. I was struggling with addiction throughout high school and Dr. S believed in me despite  others saying I didn’t stand a chance at even graduating.  She was an advocate for me when I needed it most and helped me navigate the challenges of academics and identifying what I wanted for my future. I hate that I’ll never be able to thank her personally for being such a positive influence on my life, even today with 8 years clean and sober, but I hope this message helps to highlight her light and bright soul that we were all so blessed to know. I hope her family can find comfort in knowing she meant a lot to many people, and I’ll always be grateful for having the opportunity to have known her. 

A photo of my parents’ wedding. Lisa and Maria and my mother. 

Words to describe Maria don’t exist!  I put my faith in her to guide my children and she went above and beyond but quietly, in her own way. Always a positive word to say, an encouragement and an “I can’t wait to hear the rest of your story.” I cried in her office when she retired and expressed my well wishes. She truly was meant to guide young people. I’m saddened at her passing but so very grateful our family was touched by her.  

I met Maria in 1985 when we worked together at Camp Challenge, a camp for kids with disabilities.  I came out of that summer job with a lifelong friend.  A few years later we were roommates  as she started her career and I went to UCF.

Maria was a person that could make you feel both totally seen, warts and all, and totally loved at the same time.  There was no sense of competition, no angst if we didn't talk to each other often; we just picked up where we left off.  As I battled cancer a few years ago, she was there supporting me and making me feel totally cared for despite her own battle.  Her passing has left a large hole in my heart.  

Sending love and strength to her friends and family for I know the loss you feel is deep. 

Here is another photo of Maria with the 1979-80 McDonald’s All Anerican HS Band Baritone Section, posted on the McDonald’s All Anerican HS Band Alumni Facebook Page. 

I went to Colonial HS,, Class of 1984, and played in the Colonial HS Band with Maria’s brothers, Jimmy, and Mike, and her sister Rosemary, who were all excellent musicians as well. Maria’s legacy of musical excellence was most certainly passed along to her siblings, and was admired by everyone who was in the Colonial HS Band with her, and after she graduated, including myself.  In addition to her many musical accolades in High School, Maria was one of 2 students selected to represent the State of Florida in the 1979-80 McDonald’s All-American HS Band, and Jazz Band. This was an incredible honor that I would later share with Maria 4 years later, as I was selected for the 1983-84 McDonald’s HS Band and Jazz Band representing Florida and Colonial HS.  Maria’s legacy certainly played a role in my motivation to audition for the McDonald’s HS Band, and I am forever grateful. Here are a couple of photos of Maria with the 1979-80 McDonalds Band that were posted on the McDonalds Band Facebook Page. 

We will never forget Maria sharing in our wedding day. Her love was truly unconditional.

As I read these memories about my sister Maria, I have to say that I am not surprised one bit. Maria is definitely one of a kind. I especially loved these last 5+ years being able to talk and visit together more. We talked about how different we were as far as how our lives went, but the love we shared for our family and how getting together with everyone was always top priority, that is what wasn't different.  The one on one talks we had I will treasure the rest of my life. The memory I would like to share is..the shirt I bought her for her birthday a few years back. I was bringing her home from a hospital stay and I handed it to her. As she read it, she looked up at me and said....I want to wear this shirt home. Of course it was orange, as far as the saying on the shirt..... Well let's just say...she rocked it!!. Maria is, and always will be, the most amazing strong, bravest, loving, caring ( and the list goes on) person I know and even those words are understated. I am a better person because of you Maria. I will miss you and love you every single day. Kiss mom, dad, Lisa and everyone up in Heaven until we are united. I love you too big sister ❤️

Rosemary Sciaino I am completely stunned and saddened to hear of Maria’s passing! She is truly a unique and very talented lady and I hold so many memories of her during our Grenadier days! She has always held a special place in my heart! Found a photo of us after we were chosen as Colonials drum majors! Peace, love and hugs to you and your family❤️❤️😢😢

I held Maria "Dr. Sciaino" in such a high regard as she was an incredibly respected school counselor and educator.   She was above and beyond professional, positive, and student-centered.  I remember one year, while working with her, I planned to nominate her for teacher of the year.  She humbly declined (of course later I learned that she had already received the honor-I think even more than once)!  When I was a new counselor, she helped me through what is still to date one of the hardest and most tragic cases I have had with a family in need.  I still remember a single father (who was given a month to live) insisting Dr. Sciaino meet with us, because of the difference she had made in his son's life over the years.  MANY families expressed this level of TRUST and VALUE in her, and this one example is a reflection of the countless families that leaned on her in their most desperate times.  I have flashbacks of her quickly eating yogurt for lunch at her desk, because she always used her time wisely to serve; the essence of her being.  For me, as a newer counselor, she was truly a mentor.  Now as an administrator, I still often think of her, her servant heart, and try to emulate this in my own craft.  RIP, Maria, all of you have brought to this world will not be forgotten!  

It's hard to imagine the world without Maria.  We feel so lucky to have been friends with her. We are grateful for her friendship and her indomitable spirit.  She supported Mo & I through good times and bad.  Memories of her will stay in our hearts and minds forever.
Love, Linda & Mo

I actually never met Maria but I knew she was soo special. I helped her sell a condo but it was MUCH more than that! She was a kind human that had a “light” and I’m am a much better human because I knew her. We  tried to meet up but obviously, God had a different plan! It doesn’t mean that she didn’t touch my life because she did and I wish nothing but LOVE AND LIGHT for her sweet partner! Thank you for letting me be a small part of your journey! Heaven definitely gained an angel!

Anyone who knew Maria knew just how special she was.  She was one of the nicest, kindest people I've ever known.  Although distance kept us apart throughout most of our lives, in recent years we have communicated and gotten closer.  Her positive nature and friendliness were infectious.  During this very difficult and trying period in her life, when dealing with this awful illness, I never heard her mutter even one tiny negative syllable; nor did I ever hear her utter even one word of self pity or sadness.  She demonstrated the qualities that we should all try to emulate in our lives.  She demonstrated more courage than most of us would ever begin to imagine.  Needless to say, she will be sorely missed by all who knew her.  Rest In Peace, my dear sweet cousin.

Love, Frank & Rosanne

One of my best memories of Maria, and there are many, was when I had the privilege of watching her perform in a concert at Carnegie Hall when she was selected as one of two senior high school band members to play with the McDonald's All American High School Band.  She played the baritone horn in the main band and the trombone in the Jazz Band.   Maria was, indeed,  very special to all who had the honor and privilege of knowing and loving her.   I will miss my very kind, considerate and loving niece.   
Her god-mother and Aunt Theresa

Maria , so many memories, conversations, guidance you gave me growing up . Knowing I wasn’t alone . You made me feel safe , loved and having you as my cousin a member of the family is truly a reward in itself .. I love you and will miss you very much . Till we meet again , send my love to Grandma , Lisa , aunt rose and uncle Mike .. ♥️♥️♥️

I remember Dr. Sciaino from elementary school and high school. She was always a radiating light of joy - someone that embodied what a counselor should be. All of these years later, when I hear her name mentioned, her smiling face pops right into my head. That’s the immediate memory I have of her and always will. She made an impact on me as a kid. She will certainly be remembered with love and admiration. Rest easy, Dr. Sciaino. You left behind a path of love and kindness. What more can any of us do? 

Maria was an amazing person. I worked with her and had the opportunity to see her with her students, when she was done counseling the student they would smile thank her and go. She loved her kids and she was so good to her co-workers. One of my favorite things about Maria was her incredible smile! 

Maria had the biggest heart. She was so loved by so many people. I loved working with her. She always had a beautiful smile. Rip Maria. 🌹

Aunt Maria<3
I’m so grateful that I got to call you family. You were such an amazing person. So kind, loving, and caring. Inspirational, ambitious and courageous. A true warrior. 
There are of course many many memories we’ve shared throughout the years, but my most fondest memories are of you and Evelyn.  I’m so so happy you got to come to our wedding and also to my baby shower, but having the opportunity to go down in December for you to meet Evelyn takes the cake. I will continue to show her the videos of you reading to her; I enjoy them just as much as she does. We love you and miss you tons. Give grandma, grandpa, aunt Lisa and Bandit lots of hugs and kisses<3 We have the best guardian angels.
Until we meet again…. 

My cousin Maria, you are already missed more than I think you could have imagined here on Earth. You were always a source of measured reason and inspiration for your leadership and the example you set for others with your courage and perseverance. You were so talented in many ways, and generous with yourself, your time and your home. Everybody who was a friend of ours was automatically a friend of yours and you treated everyone with an open heart and a brilliant smile. Many times I’ve been faced with a challenge I’ve asked myself “What would Maria do?” and the answer comes to me. Enjoy our family in Heaven until the rest of us can join you up there. 

OBITUARY

Maria Sciaino

February 14, 1962 – March 25, 2022

Baldwin-Fairchild Oviedo Funeral Home

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