Candida Innaco

Born on May 29, 1960, in Bridgeport, she was the daughter of the late Harry and Rosalie Massimino. She was raised in Westport where she attended Hillspoint Elementary School, Long Lots Junior High School, and Staples High School. She went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education from the University of Dayton and a Master of Music in Saxophone Performance from Kansas State University. During her undergraduate years, she enjoyed performing in bands outside of the university such as Dixieland bands and especially, the Fred Robinson Big Band.

On July 13, 1986, she married her husband, Curtis Innaco, at St. Theresa’s Church in Trumbull.

Candida dedicated over 35 years to music education in the Westport Public Schools, retiring in 2021. Candi taught concert band at Bedford Middle School before going on to serve as Assistant Band Director at Staples High School and Band Director at Saugatuck Elementary School. She also directed chamber music and provided private instruction at the high school in support of the concert band, jazz ensemble, and chamber groups. Additionally, she pioneered and coordinated the Westport Youth Arts Collaborative.

Teaching in her hometown was especially meaningful to her, and she took great pride in guiding generations of students. She was known for her belief, “You can’t teach the child until you reach the child,” a principle that shaped her approach to both music and mentorship.

Outside of her career, Candida was active in fitness and wellness. This included her participation in Thrive, a Connecticut-based nonprofit that provides supportive care to those facing cancer like herself. She also shared resources with others through her initiative, “Candi’s Corner.” She enjoyed cooking, gardening, publishing music, maintaining an active lifestyle, and caring for animals, especially cats.

Candida was predeceased by her parents. She is survived by her beloved husband, Curtis Innaco, and her children, Christopher, Olivia, and Serena.

Friends are invited to a visitation on Tuesday, May 12th, 5 - 8pm at Spadaccino & Leo P. Gallagher Community Funeral Home, 315 Monroe Turnpike, Monroe. Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated Wednesday, May 13th at 10am at St. Lawrence Parish,505 Shelton Ave, Shelton. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Oncology Fund at Smilow Cancer Center.