Frank Scambia, 80, of Deptford, NJ, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 9, 2026.   

Legacy

Frank lived a life defined by kindness, compassion, and a deep commitment to the people around him. Surrounded by family and friends, he devoted his life to education and the belief that teaching could change lives. In 1984, he earned his Doctorate, further strengthening a career built on dedication to students and learning. Frank began his career in the Philadelphia Public School District, where he served as a teacher and administrator from 1967 to 1996. He later continued his work in the Paulsboro School District, serving as principal from 1996 to 2001 and then as superintendent from 2001 until his retirement in 2013. In addition, he proudly served the community through four terms on the Deptford Board of Education.

Teaching was never just a job for Frank—it was his calling. He believed wholeheartedly in the power of education and took great joy in both teaching his students and learning from them. If he wasn’t in the school building during the day, he was almost certainly attending a school event in the evening, always supporting his students and school community. Beyond his work in education, Frank was deeply involved in his community. He was an active member of the United States Junior Chamber (Deptford Jaycees) for many years and served as Director of Deptford Day for 15 years. He also served as Executive Director of “Contact,” a suicide prevention organization dedicated to helping those in need. Frank was a faithful and active member of Jersey Life Wesleyan Church.

While education was one of his greatest passions, nothing meant more to Frank than his family—especially his beloved wife, Pat, with whom he shared 58 wonderful years of marriage. Together they enjoyed traveling and spending countless cherished moments with their children and grandchildren. Frank often shared a quote that perfectly captured his gratitude for life: “Look around you. I’ve got a great wife, wonderful kids, and super grandkids. What else matters? God has blessed me.” Frank’s legacy of kindness, service, and love will live on in the many lives he touched. He will be deeply missed.  

Family 

Loving husband of 58 years to Patricia “Pat” (nee: Della Piomba); beloved father to Marc Scambia and Cyndi (Brian) Stocklin; loving  Pop to Marc, Eric, Brianna, Michael, Madison and Chase. Loving uncle to Donna (Harry), Debbie, Linda (John), Donna (Kevin) and Deanna (Dan).  Survived by 12 great nieces and great nephews and 1 great great niece.   

Farewell Tribute

Family and friends are invited to Frank’s Memorial Service on Wednesday, March 18, 2026 at the Culture Life Wesleyan Church, 508 Woodbury Turnersville Road, Blackwood, NJ  08012.    The visitation will take place at the church from 10 AM to 11 AM, with the funeral service following from 11 AM to 12 PM. 

Memorial Contributions

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Frank’s name to: 

Paulsboro Board of Education 

Dr. Frank Scambia Scholarship Fund 

622 North Delaware Street 

Paulsboro, NJ  08066