Donald Michael Scalia, 62, passed away on September 10, 2023 after a short illness.
Don, as he was known to everyone who loved him, was born on October 7, 1960 to Thomas and Sheila in Corning, New York. After graduating from Corning-Painted Post East High School in 1978, he moved to New York City where he worked for several years in construction and carpentry. He dedicated his free time to animal rights protests and volunteering as a clinic escort at Planned Parenthood. In the mid 1990s Don relocated to Columbia, South Carolina, where he obtained his bachelor’s degree at the University of South Carolina. He then attended George Washington University Law School, graduating in 2001. After a short stint practicing law in the corporate world, Don was delighted to join the Monroe County Public Defender’s Office. Don was an exceptionally talented attorney and he loved his work and his colleagues. He retired from Monroe County in late 2022.
While working as a Public Defender, Don met the love of his life, Campbell Roth. They married in 2016 and embarked on a life together filled with laughter, love, travel, music, and friends.
Don was exceptionally smart, wickedly funny, and unendingly compassionate. His big heart had an especially soft place for all animals, and he was a vegan for over 30 years. He had a lust for learning and doing. He was always there for his family and friends. He fiercely loved them and was fiercely loved back.
Don is survived by his wife, Campbell, sister June, brother Tom, twin brother Chris (Lynn) Scalia, niece Brittany, nephews Tristan and Aidan, and his pets/“deadbeat roommates,” Chloe, Ygritte and Wally. He leaves behind a wide circle of beloved friends who will cherish a lifetime of memories with him.
Donations in his memory will be lovingly appreciated in lieu of flowers to any of the causes he championed, including Verona Street Animal Services and Planned Parenthood.