On Saturday, May 9, Pace University Pleasantville hosted a Celebration of Life Ceremony for Stevie DeLuca, a Pace junior whose untimely passing left the campus grieving. The ceremony was held in the Kessel Student Center Gottesman Room at 3:00 p.m. An estimated 150 students and staff attended the event along with the DeLuca family. 

Upon entering the room, students were given a pink carnation and a program for the ceremony. Students were also encouraged to wear pink, Stevie’s favorite color. While students got comfortable, a slideshow of pictures were displayed, and guests had the opportunity to sign a poster in Stevie’s honor. 

Several guest speakers were present, including Vice President of Student Affairs and Dean for Students Jeff Barnett, and Dean of the Dyson College of Arts and Sciences Tresmaine Grimes. The community was also joined by retired Pace Chaplain Sister Susan Becker, who led students in a heartfelt prayer.  

The event opened up the floor for students to share their personal anecdotes, stories, and memories. Junior Alpha Chi Rho brother Adrian Salmani stated, “‘Everything for Stevie’ isn’t just a saying, it’s a feeling.” 

As one of Stevie’s closest friends, Salmani confidently stated, “There will never be another Stevie Marie.” The memory of Stevie is something that the Pace community carries with them in every moment of every day. ‘Everything for Stevie’ isn’t a slogan, but a way of living. 

Pace cheerleader Kaylee Park also spoke up to honor her past teammate. Park stated, “Seeing someone who was so full of life and was always trying to just live in the moment go through something like this just really makes you realize anything could happen. I am a very optimistic person, and seeing her in the hospital that day, I had no worries she wasn’t going to wake up.” 

Stevie was and always will be an exceptional person. Park went on to say, “All of my friends know I am not a hugger, but these past few days I wish I had just hugged Stevie one last time, not knowing that it would be my last chance.” Park vowed to carry Stevie with her “forever through every memory, every laugh, and every reminder of the amazing person she was.” 

Finally, the ceremony was closed with a poem read by Pace Delta Phi Epsilon alumni Francesca Vitale and Alyssa Sinacore. The pair served as Stevie’s New Member Educators during her first semester as a sister of Delta Phi Epsilon. Francesca and Alyssa grew very fond of Stevie throughout their sisterhood. The poem, titled “Remember Me” by Anthony Dowson, reads as follows: 

Speak of me as you have always done. 

Remember the good times, laughter, and fun. 

Share the happy memories we’ve made. 

Do not let them wither or fade. 

I’ll be with you in the summer’s sun, 

And when the winter’s chill has come. 

I’ll be the voice that whispers in the breeze. 

I’m peaceful now, put your mind at ease. 

I’ve rested my eyes and gone to sleep, 

But memories we’ve shared are yours to keep. 

Sometimes our final days may be a test, 

But remember me when I was at my best. 

Although things may not be the same, 

Don’t be afraid to use my name. 

Let your sorrow last for just a while. 

Comfort each other and try to smile. 

I’ve lived a life filled with joy and fun. 

Live on now, make me proud of what you’ll become. 

Stevie’s memory will live on in those around her. Her friends, family, and community will carry her legacy and strength everywhere they go. Stevie will forever be remembered by those who love and cherish her most. 

The DeLuca family thanks all who contributed to and attended the celebration of life. They expressed gratitude to everyone who loved and cared for Stevie.