Dr. Gloria Helen Fusco Marino, age 73, died on April 7, 2015 after a long illness. Ms. Marino was a life-long resident of Milford, CT. She was born in Milford on December 27, 1941 to the late Samuel and Anna Vojeck Fusco. In her early years, she grew up on Myrtle Beach in Milford. She graduated from Southern CT State University and began one of her greatest passions in life, which was teaching. Ms. Marino was the first to create and implement the Learning for Life program for adults with disabilities. She was named Teacher of the Year in 1993 and 1994. In just three years, she obtained a Doctor of Education from Colombia University in 1994. In addition Ms. Marino received multiple awards and recognitions including the Paul Harris Fellowship Award, the National Teachers Hall of Fame in 1997, and the Humanitarian Award in 2003. Ms. Marino taught at Jonathan Law High School until her retirement. She was an adjunct professor at Southern CT State University. Besides teaching, her greatest passion was her granddaughters, Elizabeth Parent of Milford and Haley Marino of Uncasville. She leaves behind her beloved sister, Elizabeth (Libby) Fusco Ditchkus of Milford and her daughter, Kathryn Marino Giordano of Milford. She also leaves a daughter-in-law Kimberly Curtain Marino of Uncasville, a son-in-law Richard Giordano and her loving companion, John F. Mason. She leaves two nephews Vincent and Samuel Ditchkus and two nieces Donna and Helen Ditchkus. Besides her parents, she is predeceased by her two sons Anthony J. Marino and Christopher S. Marino. Calling hours are Monday, April 13, 2015 from 4 to 6pm at the Smith Funeral Home, 135 N. Broad St., Milford. A Prayer Service will be held during the visitation at 4:30pm at the funeral home with Father Maroney officiating from St. Gabriel Church. Interment will be private.