Vincent C. Cancro

Vincent C. Cancro, of Ocean City, NJ, formerly of Havertown and Philadelphia, a husband, father, grandfather, and educator, died on December 14th 2024 at the University of Pennsylvania Hospital at the age of 80.

Born in the Bronx, NY, Vince cultivated his love of literature and learning in local Catholic schools before graduating from Fordham University with a degree in English.

Following a friend’s recommendation, he began what would become his life’s calling at West Philadelphia Catholic High School for Boys. His dedication to education was briefly paused when he joined the Peace Corps in the late 1960s, serving two transformative years in Afghanistan. There, he taught English while mastering Farsi, an experience that profoundly shaped his worldview and character.

Vince dedicated his professional life to nurturing young minds and spirits. Throughout his tenure, he wore many hats: English teacher, yearbook moderator, department chair, and mentor to both students and fellow teachers. His involvement extended beyond the classroom through Operation Santa Claus, where he delivered Christmas gifts to West Philadelphia families, often with his own children alongside him. He organized book fairs, chaperoned countless dances, and brought literature to life with his infectious enthusiasm and deep intellectual curiosity. His retirement in 2005 marked the end of an era at West Catholic. While pursuing his Master’s degree in Theater at Villanova University in the early 1960s, he met Lynne Tomasco, who would become his first wife and mother to their three children: Craig, Chad, and Miranda. After Lynne’s untimely death from breast cancer in 1985 at age 38, Vince devoted himself to raising his children as a single father. He created cherished memories through summer travels, served as president of the Sacred Heart CYO, and ensured all three children completed their college educations.

Love blessed him again when he married Donata “Donna” Davenport in 2003. Together they shared homes in Havertown and Philadelphia before realizing his lifelong dream of living at the Shore, settling in Ocean City in 2020.

Vince is survived by his wife, Donata; sons Craig (Allison) and Chad (Emily); daughter Miranda (Stephen Faroni); grandchildren Callie, Brooke, and Dean Cancro; Cole and Carmello Cancro; Tristan and Troy Faroni; and his brother Charles (Sandy).

Viewing will be held Thursday, December 19th at D’Anjolell Memorial Homes (2811 West Chester Pike, Broomall, PA 19008) from 6 pm to 8 pm. Mass is to be held Friday, December 20th at Annunciation B.V.M. Church (401 Brookline Blvd., Havertown, PA 19083) at 10 am followed by interment at Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery.

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