

Despite the burdens of health concerns, Tina was strong, finding ways to defeat her battles, she lived a storied life.
Born in Portland in 1952, Tina grew up on Munjoy Hill in the close circles of family and friends. Tina attended Cathedral School, graduated from Portland High School and attended the University of Southern Maine. Her quick and sharp wit , funny ways and sweet character made her a friend to many.
With her cousins John , Jim , Fred, and Rosalie, who lived next door, Tina learned to twist and shout, dancing the days away, and in 1965, not quite thirteen years old, Tina won a trip to Shea Stadium in New York City to see the Beatles. During high school, Tina worked at the original Shaw’s grocery store on Congress Street in downtown Portland. Following USM, Tina began a career in the telecommunications industry where she excelled and was often rewarded for her outstanding work. Seeking a change , it was her stylish, artistic vision that led her to a career in interior design; using her flair for art , furniture, and home furnishings, Tina made those who sought her expertise comfortable and happy in their surroundings.
Affectionately, Tina cared for her dogs Eddie and Harry, both schnauzers with personalities that provided Tina companionship and joy. Recognizing the needs of less fortunate dogs, Tina was a generous contributor to the Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland and to the causes of sheltered animals.
Though Tina had no children, she became the number one Aunty to her nieces and nephews. During overnights at Aunty Tina’s, after taking them rollerblading through the streets of Portland, Tina would rent movies for her ”buddies” and have parties complete with prizes and candy. Before bed, she would allow them to jump on the beds and have pillow fights…when morning came along, no one wanted to leave.
Tina will be missed, the memory of her life will live in the hearts of all who knew her. She was sweet, quick with a joke, intelligent, and good company. Tina was forgiving, a loving sister, a devoted friend, a caring daughter, the best Aunty in the world, a lover of life, and a gift to all of us.
Tina was predeceased by her parents Henry A. and Anna R. Romano and her special nephew Joey Papi. Tina is survived by siblings Anne Romano ( David Robinson ), Rick Romano ( Jina ), Mike Romano ( Miguel Guzman ), Grace Romano ( Eddie Howard ), Dan Romano ( Diane ), nieces and nephews Sadie, Gabe, Zoë, Rosa, Mike, Cosmo, Janice and Wendall as well as many loving aunts, uncles and cousins.
Visiting hours will be held from 4-7 pm on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at Jones, Rich & Barnes Funeral Home, 199 Woodford St. Portland. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 am on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at St. Peter's Roman Catholic Church, 72 Federal St. Portland. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery in South Portland.
In lieu of flowers please consider contributions to Make-A-Wish Foundation or the Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland.
SHARE OBITUARYSHARE
v.1.18.0