JACKSON – Danielle Gioia said that renaming a street after Michael “Mikey” Gioia meant that her son will always have a place in the community he called home.
The township permanently renamed Westlake Court to honor the 16-year-old high school student who tragically died in a car crash. A new sign now names the street Michael “Mikey” Gioia Way.
“Even though he’s not able to come home, that was his last destination; that was his final resting place in a way. The street naming ceremony honoring my son, Michael “Mikey” Gioia, was an incredibly meaningful moment for our family,” she told The Jackson Times.
“The outpouring of love from the community was overwhelming, and we are deeply grateful to the mayor (Jennifer Kuhn) and everyone from the township who helped make the dedication possible. Seeing Mikey’s name honored in this way – and feeling Mikey’s light reflected through the people who gathered – is something we will forever hold close,” she added.
“Prior to the street dedication, our family founded The Michael “Mikey” Gioia Memorial Foundation to honor Mikey’s life and continue his legacy of kindness, compassion, and helping others. Mikey had a rare ability to show up for people in both big and small moments, and this foundation was created to keep Mikey’s light shining through acts of support, hope, and positivity,” his mother said.
She said, “I’m also proud to share the foundation’s first official project, Mikey’s Path of Positivity, which will be located in the Jackson Township High School courtyard. This space is being designed as a place where students can pause, reflect, and reset – whether they’re struggling, need time to themselves, or simply want to sit quietly and feel inspired. The goal is for students to feel Mikey’s light through words of encouragement and positivity.”
Gioia said the courtyard will feature a 15 x 20 paver installation made up of engraved pavers that anyone can purchase. Each paver will include a positive affirmation or message of encouragement, offering students comfort, inspiration, or even just a smile on a hard day.
The links for more information and to follow the foundation’s work:
- Instagram: @themikeygioiafoundation
- Facebook: The Michael “Mikey” Gioia Memorial Foundation
- Paver Purchase / Project Link:bricksrus.com/donorsite/mikeyspathofpositivity
Joining the family and Mayor Kuhn at the dedication ceremony were Councilman Giuseppe Palmeri, Police Chief Matthew Kunz and members of the Jackson Township Police Department as well many others who knew Mikey and wanted to honor his memory.
“This permanent tribute will provide comfort, healing, and a lasting place of remembrance for those whose lives were touched by Mikey,” Mayor Kuhn said. “We gathered not only to remember Mikey, but to honor the life and spirit of a remarkable young man who left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. This street dedication stands as a symbol of remembrance, love and our shared commitment to caring for one another and protecting our community.”
Councilman Palmeri added, “The street dedication was a solemn and heartfelt moment. Speaking with Michael’s parents and witnessing the community’s support was incredibly moving, and a testament to the impact his life continues to have.”
The crash that took the teen’s life occurred around 6 p.m. on October 8 after a Ford F-150 pickup truck traveling eastbound on East Veterans Highway crossed into the westbound lanes and collided with Gioia’s Nissan Altima.
The family spoke with The Jackson Times after the tragedy occurred noting his bright smile and energy, and his special relationships with his siblings Santino, Giovanni and Allie. “He was goofy in the best way,” his mother remarked. “He loved to make people laugh, sometimes at the dumbest jokes.”
“He just had this energy that made everything better,” she added.
Mikey played football for Jackson Liberty High School, and was a dedicated fan of fantasy football and the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Honor Roll student was known for his empathy, and wanted to become a therapist or counselor.
“He was my baby. No matter how old he got, that’s what he’d always be,” she told The Jackson Times.
Stephanie A. Faughnan contributed to this story
