CHERRY TWP — Sue Scialabba remembers Tana Willetts Frangioni as someone who took her experience at Moniteau High School to heart.

"She was totally Moniteau. She loved this school and everything about it," said Scialabba, a longtime coach in the district. "She was a great athlete and a great person."

Frangioni, a 1994 Moniteau graduate, starred in volleyball, basketball, track and softball before a 25-year career in the U.S. Air Force. Tragically, she was killed in an automobile accident in Florida just 11 days from retirement in April 2021.

She was honored as part of the district's Military Appreciation Night prior to Wednesday's girls basketball game against Cranberry.

Family members, friends and former teammates and coaches were present to honor Frangioni's life.

Lisa McLaughlin became friends with her in high school.

"She had the most energetic, positive and kind personality I've ever seen," said McLaughlin. "We got to be so close, it was like we were family. It was a priority for me to be here tonight."

Frangioni left a deep imprint on Moniteau athletics. She graduated with school records in the 100- and 200-meter dashes and was part of the Warriors' top 4x100 relay team.

As a senior, she was singled out by the Butler County Chamber of Commerce, receiving the Celebrating Women in Sports Award and was recognized on the field prior to a Pittsburgh Pirates game at Three Rivers Stadium.

"Tana was very competitive and loved being part of a team. I think that's one of the reasons she joined the military," said Frangioni's uncle, Michael Van der Zee, who was part of the pregame ceremony along with his daughter, Olivia. "She had earned her teaching certificate and was planning to teach (after retiring from the Air Force)."

Frangioni served in many roles while in the Air Force, including the branch's Institute of Technology, Special Operations Command, United States Indo-Pacific Command, Central Command and also worked at the Pentagon.

Many of those in attendance Wednesday wore gray T-shirts that sported "23", Frangioni's jersey number for Moniteau's basketball team, along with the phrase: "Aim High ... Fly, Fight, Win."

On the back was a quote often spoken by her — "Make Good Choices."

Each shirt cost $15, with all the proceeds supporting a scholarship fund in Frangioni's honor, started by members of her graduating class. Recipients are Moniteau seniors based on academic performance and leadership qualities.

Michael Van der Zee appreciates the thought and effort aimed at his niece and said: "I know she would be very honored."