On Sept. 25, Joseph D. Maniaci, loving husband, father, Papa, coach, and teacher, passed away at 75 years of age. 

Born to Antonietta and Filippo Maniaci, Maniaci was raised by his Sicilian immigrant parents and grandmother, alongside his four brothers: Rocco, Matteo, Anthony, and Phillip.

The first in his family to graduate, Maniaci earned a bachelor’s degree in education from Adelphi University and a master’s degree from Dowling College. He had an insatiable, lifelong thirst for knowledge and a passion for storytelling. He traveled the world and took every opportunity to bring his wife, children, and grandchildren along. 

He is fondly remembered as a 37-year history teacher at Ronkonkoma Middle School and 52-year staff member of the Connetquot School District, where he spent the last 15 years working as the district photographer. He is also respectfully remembered as a basketball player and collegiate coach. Through his careers in education and coaching, Maniaci touched the lives of thousands of individuals and families.  

He is survived by his high school sweetheart and wife of 52 years, Diana; his two children, Alexandra and Philip; his daughter-in-law, Jennifer; and his seven grandchildren, Amanda, Emma, Joey, Isabella, Gabrielle, Connor, and Joseph; as well as his beloved dog, Scout. 

He loved his family more than anything.

“I take care of my people.”

Services will be held at Moloney Funeral Home in Ronkonkoma.