During an official street renaming ceremony held on Jan. 27, the Town of Brookhaven and the Sachem Central School District joined family and friends to rename Smith Road in memory of a local leader, legend and warrior Matthew DiStefano, who lost his battle with cancer five years ago. The street, on which Sachem High School North is located, now holds the name of Matthew “Dezy” DiStefano Way.
Brookhaven Town Supervisor Dan Panico, joined by Deputy Supervisor Neil Foley and Councilman Neil Manzella, said, “Today, his memory will be enshrined in moments after we reveal that sign across the street from the school where he was employed, loved and where he went to school as a child.”
Sachem Superintendent of Schools Patricia Trombetta shared that Dezy had a major impact on Sachem High School North. “What Dezy did for Sachem, especially North, was he reminded everyone of the importance of family, and for us that was our North family,” Ms. Trombetta said. “Because of him, there were more hellos in the hallways, pats on the back for something good, and that extra hug when you need a friend or shoulder to lean on.”
In describing Dezy, his sisters, Michele Mullady, Jennifer Kolongowski and Melissa Thurston, described their brother as a legend and warrior. “His goal was to spread his mindset to others, and his legacy lives on five years later,” Mullady said. “He has taught us how to live and be grateful and appreciative each and every day.”
Under the baton of chorus teacher Cara Caliendo, the IMAGE A Capela group performed inspirational music prior to family and friends crossing the street to proudly and ceremoniously unveil the new street sign.
Date Added: 1/28/2025