The reason I went back to playing piano at age 50 is because of Jay. I loved him and he made my high school experience (I graduated in 1979) so memorable. He and the band is literally what made my high school years. I wish I knew he passed as I would have gone to the service today. Years after high school I was out to a business dinner, and I kept noticing the beautiful piano music (my back was to the piano) and one old song after another kept playing like Send in the Clowns, Lady in Red etc that I remember from HS and I finally had to turn around to see who was playing and it was Jay. I cried. He had seen me and was remembering and playing all the songs I had learned to play under his tutelage. He was a beautiful spirit and I have thought of him often as I play the piano. Also, all my Romito sisters and my mom (Dini) went to see the Tatoo (drum corps) in VA a few years ago and it brought back all the memories of marching in the Garnet Valley Band. I played the Glockenspiel in his math in band). He was a spark to my day, and a huge influence in my life growing up. He will be missed.
Sue Romito West
Posted by Sue Romito West - Student November 22, 2021