Lauren Pena

•

Jan 27, 2025, 12:48 PM

•

Updated

Top Stories

00:22

Bellport man killed in Long Island Expressway crash

02:16

STORM WATCH: Damp and dreary this weekend on Long Island

00:18

Bellport man convicted of assault in sober house bat attack

00:20

Man charged with causing over $416K in damage to Manorville golf course

00:36

Massive blaze overtakes multiple homes on Fire Island

01:40

State police to launch Operation Southern Shield to crack down on dangerous, distracted driving on the Southern State Parkway

00:24

Woman convicted of throwing lit explosive device into boyfriend’s bedroom while he slept

01:47

Oceanside woman pleads not guilty to new charges in fatal Southern State Parkway crash

The Sachem community gathered Monday in Lake Ronkonkoma to rename a street after Matthew ‘Dezy’ Distefano on the fifth anniversary of his passing.

The beloved teacher and motivational speaker founded the DezyStrong Foundation, a nonprofit that helps provide positive experiences to those battling cancer.

Since his death from kidney cancer in 2020, he is remembered for his legacy as an inspiring community leader.

"It's pretty amazing that he can still live on. His legacy is still here and it's an incredible accomplishment," said his widow Jennifer Distefano.

MORE: Family, students say goodbye to beloved Sachem teacher, coach

Loved ones paid tribute to Distefano by naming the corner of Smith Road and Midland Boulevard Matthew 'Dezy' Distefano Way.

The street is across from Sachem High School North, where Distefano taught before his passing.

MORE: 12 Making a Difference: Matt DiStefano