Mary Concepta "Connie" DeSalvo

Connie DeSalvo, 80, of Gulf Breeze, FL passed away peacefully Saturday, Dec. 12, 2020. She was born July 18, 1940 in Jacksonville, FL to John and Mary DeSalvo. She attended Landon High School, where she was named "Best All Around" her senior year. At Jacksonville University, she completed her Bachelor's degree in Education, a Master's degree in Reading Education, and founded a sorority.

She was preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her brother, Joseph DeSalvo (Sandra);
son, Richard DeSalvo (Heather); granddaughter, Drew DeSalvo; daughter, Meri DeSalvo Asmar (Joel); grandson, Sawyer, granddaughter, Lily; niece, Debra DeSalvo and nephew, John DeSalvo; as well as several cousins.

At the beginning of her distinguished career in education, Connie taught 4th grade at Hendricks Day School and 4 ^th grade at San Jose Episcopal in Jacksonville, FL where she established many enduring friendships. She later owned and operated Bright Start Preschool and Kindergarten in Orange Park, FL where she instilled a love of learning in both students and families. After moving closer to her own family, she taught Pre-K at Episcopal Day School in Pensacola, FL until her retirement. Throughout her career, she was affectionately known as "everyone's favorite teacher" and stayed in touch with many of her students over the years. After retirement, she cheerfully volunteered at her grandkids' school, Pensacola Beach Elementary.

Connie was known for her love of family, her joyously positive attitude and her graciousness. She was an avid reader and lifelong teacher to many; a compassionate, listening friend to even more; and a humble, selfless giver. She was a devout Christian and is now looking over us from Heaven. Due to the pandemic, there will not be any services at this time, but we ask that you pray for Connie and do a kind act in her name.

Those wishing to honor her memory may donate to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest FL, 1320 Creighton Rd., Pensacola, FL 32504.