A Friend of St. Peregrine

Tina A. (Bagneschi) Scalia of Niagara Falls was with her loving daughters when she entered into rest on Thursday, February 5, 2009. Mrs. Scalia, born in Niagara Falls, was the daughter of Amato and Gemma (Barsochi) Bagneschi.

Tina was the wife of Anthony F. Scalia, who predeceased her in 2002. She is survived by two daughters, Karen Scalia of Niagara Falls and Lynne Scalia of Wheatfield. Her youngest daughter, Diane, predeceased her in 1992. She is also survived by her sister, Dora (late Paul) DeRubes of Mesa, AZ and predeceased by her brother, Osvaldo (late Linda) Bagneschi.

Tina graduated from Niagara Falls High School. She was employed as the office manager with Cecconi Chrysler Complex for twenty-one years until her retirement. With her husband, Anthony and her daughter, Diane, she competed in several bridge tournaments and was a member of the American Contract Bridge League.

Tina was a charter member of the Friends of St. Peregrine, an organization that offers healing masses throughout Western New York. For the past seventeen years, she was very devoted to spreading the word of St. Peregrine, the patron saint of cancer. As part of her devotion to this saint, she visited many families and delivered the traveling St. Peregrine statue. Her weekly visits provided spiritual hope, comfort, and strength to those afflicted with this disease. Her fifteen-year battle with cancer was not an obstacle, but a means by which she could let others know that God would help them through their most difficult times. Tina was known for her compassion, warm friendships, and kindness to others.

Tina was also active in fundraising for the St. Jude Shrine of Lewiston where she was the chairperson of the annual bake sale. She will be remembered for her delicious Italian cookies and her baking talents.

Her perfect lawn and meticulously cultivated flower garden was her passion. Her efforts could be seen through the beautiful presentation of color and design throughout the growing season.

There will be no prior visitation. Her daughters will receive family and friends at St. John de LaSalle Church, 86th Street and Buffalo Avenue, Niagara Falls on Monday, February 9 from 6 to 7 P.M. immediately followed by a Mass of Christian Burial. Rev. James G. Judge will concelebrate with Rev. Nicholas Rossello and Rev. David Bellittiere. In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings may be made to the Friends of St. Peregrine c/o Rev. David Bellittiere, Holy Trinity Church, 1032 Central Avenue, Dunkirk, NY 14048. Arrangements entrusted to M.J. Colucci & Son Niagara Funeral Chapel.