Shaleena I Tomassini

Shaleena passed away peacefully on Friday, June 12, 2026, at the age of 43.

At birth, doctors said she would not live past the age of two, and that she would never walk, talk, hear or see. She defied the odds. Although she never walked, she began speaking at seven months old--and from that moment on, she filled the world with her voice, spirit, and joy. As those who knew her would say, "And talk she did". She had a smile that would light up the room, and a personality that left a lasting impression on everyone she met. From an early age, she embraced life with courage and determination. At just four years old, she began competing in wheelchair racing, demonstrating both her strength and competitive spirit.

Her creativity found a home in the Art Access program at the Matheny School and Hospital, where she developed a love for painting. Her artistic talent was widely recognized, and her work was displayed throughout New Jersey at venues including the Cherry Hill Mall and UMDNJ. Beyond her art, she raised her voice in advocacy, even traveling to Congress to speak for the rights of individuals with disabilities.

Shaleena was truly multi-talented-an artist, a dancer, and an advocate. She began ballet in 2002 at Matheny through the Art Access program. Her signature performance, "In the Arms of an Angel," touched hearts everywhere it was performed. She also choreographed a deeply meaningful dance titled "Mother," dedicated to her beloved mother, Ivelisse. Her passion for dance led her to perform with the Roxey Ballet Company in New Jersey.

In 2004, Shaleena received a VSA Arts Award for dance and performed at the prestigious Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., in the presence of President George W. Bush. Her talent also caught the attention of former Washington Ballet dancer Kitty Lunn, who invited Shaleena to join the Infinity Dance Theater in New York. That same year, she was honored with the President's Education Award for Outstanding Academic Achievement.

Shaleena's determination extended to athletics. In 2013, she pushed herself to surpass her own racing times in pursuit of Olympic qualification, having already outperformed her peers in New Jersey. In 2014, she competed in the Special Olympics, winning gold medals in the 400- and 200-meter races, a silver medal in shot put, and placing

Shaleena is survived by her devoted mother Ivelisse Arce and father Arvin Tomassini, best friend Valerie, six cherished siblings, many aunts and uncles, and over 30 loving cousins. She was deeply loved by all who knew her, and was lucky to have this support system to always celebrate her achievements.

Friends & family will be recieved Friday 4-8 PM at the Ippolito-Stellato Funeral Home, 425 Ridge Road, Lyndhurst. Cremation private.

Shaleena's remarkable spirit, infectious smile, and unwavering determination touched countless lives. She leaves behind a legacy of strength, compassion, and inspiration that will never be forgotten.