Alana Maretta Scrano
On July 13, 2025 at 6 AM, Alana passed away from a ruptured appendix at St. Vincent’s Hospital in Billings, Montana. In her last moments, Alana’s hospital bed transformed into a cocoon of comfort. Free from tubes and wires, Alana was swaddled in her mother’s love as her earthly light dimmed. Alana was 24 years old.
Alana was diagnosed prenatally with a rare chromosome difference, Tetrasomy 9P. Although medical professionals foresaw a stillbirth, Alana made a booming entrance at 4:31 AM on March 30, 2001, and her cries echoed down the halls of Christiana Care Hospital in Newark, Delaware. Alana joined her mother, Kimberly Ann Norris, and birth father, Ricky Dale Crook Jr. She was the first child, grandchild, and great-grandchild on both sides of the family. So, it’s no wonder why she delighted in undivided attention throughout her life!
Despite being medically complex, Alana soaked in every moment and experience that she wasn’t expected to have. In her early years, she dipped her toes in both Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, gazed at the twinkling lights of NYC from atop the Empire State Building, and hiked up rock formations in Yosemite Valley. Any opportunity to celebrate was seized. Alana had epic birthday parties, attended the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, and watched fireworks from the U.S. Capitol lawn on Independence Day.
Alana began public education at age three. She was part of an inclusive preschool program at R. Elisabeth Maclary Elementary School in Newark, Delaware. She was the only wheelchair user in her class, and that brought an awareness to the playground’s inaccessibility. Almost overnight, Alana’s principal had a ramp constructed so she could play, too. Alana had a way of making others see the world in a different way.
In August 2005, Alana’s parents divorced, and she moved with her mother to Billings, Montana to be near extended family. Street dances, farmers’ markets and outdoor concerts were some of Alana’s favorite events while living in Downtown Billings. When the weather cooled, her hangouts of choice were the children’s section at Parmly Billings Library, Chuck E. Cheese’s and the wide corridors of Rimrock Mall where she mastered using her teensy-weensy purple walker.
Alana attended many schools in Billings. Rimrock Early Learning Center and Rose Park Elementary were her preschool classrooms. During these years, her communication skills grew, and her sign language vocabulary exploded!
Next, she went to Highland Elementary where she truly blossomed. Alana learned to write her name, to use a keyboard to type, and to read dozens of sight words. Her community beyond school and family also expanded during this time. She enjoyed Sunday school at First English Lutheran Church, joined a Girl Scout’s Brownie Troop, attended Optimist Children’s Camp, and skied down Red Lodge Mountain with Eagle Mount. She also trained and competed in track and field, basketball and gymnastics with Special Olympics.
In July 2009, Alana became a step-daughter when her mother and Salvador Anthony Scrano married. The next few years were a whirlwind at home as Alana became a sister three times over – Salvador Daniel in 2010, Serena Eve in 2012, and Cecelia June in 2014. Alana went to Meadowlark Elementary during this time, and she found solace on the long bus rides across town to and from school. She knew each drop-off and pick-up along the route. If one of her classmates wasn’t riding that day, she’d try and correct the driver by pointing and hollering when a turn was missed. Our “Little GPS” never forgot those she loved.
In August 2012, Alana moved on to Lewis and Clark Middle School. She found joy in delivering the morning newspaper, and she choreographed secret handshakes for different teachers and school staff along the route. Alana mastered raising, lowering and folding the American flag. The flag was not her classroom job; it was her duty. She even learned “The Pledge of Allegiance” in sign language. Her first period class was always Home Ec, and French toast was her favorite breakfast to prepare and eat. With or without permission, Alana often teamed up with the school’s custodian to get work done. When Alana was curious, she unapologetically thrusted herself into most any scenario. Alana connected with many general education students through the school’s peer tutoring program. And, as they supported her academically, Alana effortlessly returned lessons of empathy, kindness and respect to them. She truly cherished her time as a Lewis and Clark “Scout.”
In July 2015, Alana moved with her family to Forsyth, Montana. She spent her freshman year as a “Dogie,” at Forsyth High School. Her favorite part of the day was working as a library aide, scanning books with a barcode reader and collecting late fees from peers. She transferred to Hysham Schools her sophomore year. Even after changing schools, Alana continued to embrace her “Dogie Pride.” She attended football, volleyball, and basketball home games, and she always bought a red Gatorade and a soft pretzel with cheese from the concession stand. Alana felt safe in her routines, and she clung to her unique creature comforts.
After moving to Forsyth, Alana joined the Miles City “Bandits,” and she added bowling and bocce to her list of Special Olympics sports.
On April 25, 2016, Alana was officially adopted by her father at the Rosebud County Courthouse in Forsyth. She celebrated with a homemade banana cake with banana frosting. It’s no coincidence that one of her nicknames is “Alana-Banana!”
During her last years of high school, Alana strengthened her vocational skills and community connections. She transformed her interests of scooping, dumping, pouring, and mixing into a flourishing dog treat hobby business. She maintained a handful of “on your honor” vending boxes at businesses around Hysham, and she shared her treats with local animal advocacy groups. She cared for a flock of backyard chickens at home, joined the Rosebud Round-Up 4-H Club, and showed her eggs at the county fair. She volunteered at Billings Public Library shelving children’s DVD’s, at Yellowstone Valley Animal Shelter filling rubber toys with peanut butter and dog food, and at Montana Rescue Mission wrapping silverware in napkins for their community kitchen. She enjoyed her daily mail run from the school to the post office, and she kept up with her duty to the flag. In May 2019, Alana graduated from high school.
After high school, Alana continued many of her same activities, especially sharing time with her fellow Special Olympics Athletes. However, she became involved in new pastimes as well. Alana treasured her time at Christikon’s Camp for Adults with Developmental Disability in the Beartooth Mountains. She delighted in trotting on the back of her lesson horse, Penny, and she squealed with joy taking mini-jeep rides around her home.
Even though Alana had open-heart surgery as a newborn, her yearly cardiology appointments were uneventful for 18 years. In July 2019, Alana’s congenital heart disease caught up with her, and she had a second major cardiac surgery. Unfortunately, that surgery wasn’t as successful as hoped, and her heart function slowly declined. On July 14, 2022, Alana had a routine dental procedure under anesthesia, and her weakened heart stopped. After six minutes of CPR, Alana’s heart beat again. She had a third open heart surgery in October 2022. At her last cardiology appointment in April 2025, her heart was strong. Ironically, when Alana’s appendix ruptured, it was her heart that fought the hardest. Her heart was a veteran warrior conditioned for battle. With such an incredible heart, it’s no wonder she loved so deeply.
Throughout Alana’s life, she depended on others to help meet her basic needs, yet somehow in the process she was the one who took folks under her wing. Both known and unknown, Alana’s family gives special thanks to all that enriched Alana’s life and received her gifts in return. Alana’s family also gives special thanks to the many, many hands in the emergency and pediatric intensive care departments at St. Vincent’s Hospital working the early morning hours of July 13, 2025. They made every effort to give Alana more time, and they cried with her mother when that time came to an end.
Alana is survived by all of humanity. Alana loved people. She didn’t care about their money, social status or job title. (However, she did care about their electronics, and she’d pluck a phone from just about anyone’s pocket to scroll for her favorite train videos!) Alana interacted with thousands of people as she authentically lived her life, and she left the Earth a better place by doing so. Alana’s immediate family, Kimberly Norris-Scrano (mother), Salvador Scrano (father), Salvador Scrano (brother), Serena Scrano (sister), and Cecelia Scrano (sister) are especially impacted by her death.
A memorial service will take place at 10AM on Wednesday, July 30, 2025 at Howard School (12 Howard Valley Rd., Forsyth, MT 59327). Howard School is a historic building located 11 miles west of Forsyth off of Old HWY 10 (46° 16.191′ N, 106° 53.941′ W). Following the interment of Alana’s ashes at nearby Howard Cemetery, a gathering will be held at Howard School. There will be food, crafts, games, and sharing; so please bring your favorite Alana stories. Alana loved her traffic cone orange t-shirt, puffy magenta jacket, and jeans that were threadbare and holey. So, please come dressed in color and comfort to celebrate Alana.
Alana found joy in everyday moments, and that often made her a bit of an angelic trouble maker. She’d pop open drinks simply to pour them down the drain and to crush the aluminum can. She’d restart the washing machine just after it finished its cycle. She’d practice her fine motor skills by unzipping the clothing of strangers. Alana understood who she was, and she didn’t conform to external pressures or expectations. Alana knew that living genuinely was foundational to loving herself and others. To remember Alana, practice radical self-acceptance.
Memorial contributions can be made to Special Olympics (Miles City Bandits), Christikon’s Camp for Adults with Developmental Disability (https://christikon.org/donate-to-christikon-one-time/) or Yellowstone Valley Animal Shelter (https://yvas.org/make-a-gift/). Alana received the gifts of lifesaving donor blood and transplanted heart valve tissue. To honor her memory, please explore your potential to give life through blood, organ and tissue donation.
Alana was preceded in death by great-grandparents on all sides of her family and by treasured friends also impacted by disability.
To send condolences to Alana’s family, please visit stevensonandsons.com.
Marsha Ash says
Kim, Sal and family,
Justin and I send our deepest sympathy to you all. If you need anything, please let us know. We are here for you all 💞🙏
Annette Gorton says
Kim, Sal and family. I am deeply saddened to hear of Alana’s passing. It was good to see you, Kim, with Alana in Bozeman last month. Your family is in my prayers.
Travis and Becky Willson family says
So sorry to hear this. Alana was such a spit fire. Kaycee loved having the privilege of taking care of her for so many years. She left her mark on our family that we will treasure.
Liz, Stan and Mathias says
Oh Kim and family. Our thoughts are with you. Such a sad loss for our Special Olympics family. She was always our official greeter. She will be so missed.
Gene and Carol Gamble says
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time!!
Carla Meyer says
My deepest sympathies. I enjoyed seeing Alana in the library with you.
Rhona Webb (and Emma) says
Oh Kim and family – what a huge shock to see this. I am profoundly sorry for all of our loss. Alana was one of a kind who brought joy just by walking into a room. I just cannot imagine a world or a Special Olympic event without her. Please know that you are all wrapped in prayer and love. My memories of this fireball will sustain me and I pray that yours will you and well.
Rhona Webb (and Emma) says
Oh Kim and family – what a huge shock to see this. I am profoundly sorry for all of our loss. Alana was one of a kind who brought joy just by walking into a room. I just cannot imagine a world or a Special Olympic event without her. Please know that you are all wrapped in prayer and love. My memories of this fireball will sustain me and I pray that yours will you and well.
Melody Allies says
Kim and Family
I’m so sorry for you loss and I’m going to miss Alana at special Olympics she was very good at special Olympics and she was beautiful and smart and I’m going to miss saying hi and talking to her and I’m sending hugs and prayers to you and your family. 🙏 💕
Charles DeCock says
Very sorry to read the news of your loss! I will be keeping you in my prayers. Peace be with you.
Peggy Deveny says
Kim, Sal and family:
I’m sorry to hear about Alana. She will be truly missed by all those who knew her. I will miss her “high-fives” whenever we would meet and the time we spent at school baking and working. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Tammy Grimm says
Alana knew how to brighten up a room with her “sass” and making sure you were listening to her. She will be missed dearly and especially at gymnastics. Loved that Young Lady!!! Hugs to the family, you all were a blessing to Alana and I know that she was a blessing to you. Hugs.
Heather Tweet says
Scrano family,
I am so, so sorry. It is hard to imagine someone so spunky and full of life is gone. I think about how much Alana taught us all during her time here. I feel really blessed to have spent the time I did with her. Your family will be in my thoughts.
Tammy Burt says
Kim and family-
I was heartbroken to hear of Alana’s passing. She always made me smile whenever I saw her. I just loved her. Kim, you are an amazing Mom and my love and hugs are sent to you. God bless all of you during this difficult time . Tammy and Jared
Kimberley Farley says
Kim and Family,
My heart is breaking for all of you. I loved working with Alana and herr telling me “all done” with her huge eyes and beautiful smile. She always melted my heart . Sending prayers for love and comfort for you all.
Elaine & Skylar Chosa says
Kim and family,
Skylar and I are so sorry for your loss. Alana was a beautiful young soul and will be missed dearly. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Emma Booth's family (James, Stacey, Emma & Kellen) says
Our family is so sorry for your loss. Alana was such a bright light. We enjoyed seeing your family at gymnastics for so many years. Alana’s spunky personality always brought smiles to our faces. We are sharing in your sorry and pray that the memories you have with her can one day bring you peace and comfort. Sending our deepest condolences.
Nicole Stephenson says
Kim and family, I was so sorry to hear of Alana’s passing. She was a such a sweetie, and every time she was here or I bumped into her with Peggy I got a high 5 and big hello. Her dog treats were a favorite in our house. In your grief, remember that all of us are to help in any way can. Don’t be afraid to reach out. I am praying for you all.
DeeDe Baker says
Kim, Sal, and family, we are so sorry to hear of Alana’s passing. She was a bright light wherever she went. Her ability to engage with anyone made her one of those rare stars that will shine forever. The Dog Tag Buddies crew is here for you. Deepest Condolences from all of us.
Billings Vitalant Employee says
I was so sorry to see this, I only met Alana once when she was accompanying Mom in Billings, but she was sure a lively soul and full of energy! Thinking of all her family and loved ones during this awful time, and know that hearts at our company hurt for you and are thinking of you.
Christy and Josh says
Alana will be truly missed. Josh and I loved seeing her at gymnastics. She was definitely the little spit fire!! Our thoughts and prayers are with your whole family. Love you!! Christy and Josh
Jennifer Welton says
So very sorry for your loss. Alana was so sweet to serenity in gymnastics, and she will be missed.
Serenity crosswhite and jennifer welton
Mary Smith Roig says
I’m so sorry. He brought joy to all of us. My prayers and love sent.
Terri Stephens says
Kim and family
I am heartbroken to learn of Alana’s leaving us. I will always remember her Sas & Sweet nature and her hard working dedication to her Special Olympics competitions. Sending comfort to her family.
Coach Terri
Katie Pickering says
I’m so sorry about everything. My heart is shattered. Sending prayers to everyone.
The Eck Family (Laurie, Andrew, Daniel, Sarah, Rebecca, and Coach Lance) says
Scrano Family:
Our hearts are heavier, having learned that Alana is gone from us. She was always able to brighten our days, just by being Alana. Thank you for sharing the joy of her with all of us.
Our love to your all.
Auntie Sue and Uncle Craig Norris says
Dearest Kim, Sal, Sal Dan, Serena and Cece:
We are heartbroken and send our love to you all. Alana is a force of nature and we like to think she is hanging out with GranDee and Papa at the donut shop, or the ice cream store experiencing eternal life with them. We are so grateful we were able to spend some time with you all in March.
Much love to you all.
Margarett and Chance says
So sorry to hear of Alanas passing.We are sending you love and prayers.I will smile every time I think of her and I doing sign language at our special Olympic events.
Pam Ash says
My heart is with you all. Pam
Kim Brown says
Kim,
My deepest condolences to you and your family. What a bright spark Alana brought to this world! I feel blessed to have had the opportunity to experience her light.
Kim B.
The Whickers says
Dearest Scrano family – We are so incredibly sorry for the loss of your sweet Alana. Our girls will miss their friend and teammate. Sending so much love and holding you in our prayers.
Martha and Tyler Gilbertson says
We were so sorry to hear of Alana’s passing. She was truly the bright spot and never went unnoticed at Special Olympics events or practices! She always asked if she was done😊She loved talking to everyone! We will miss her for sure!
Sue Vinton and family says
Dear Scrano Family:
We are so very sorry to learn of Alana’s passing. You were her fierce advocate as well as her beloved family! Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of you.
Katie Pauli and Diane Pauli says
Kim and Family,
What a life she lived. The love and stories and lives she impacted will live on forever. What a wonderful family she was able to call her own. Love to you all.
Emily Pritts says
Kim and family, I am very sorry to hear about Alana passing. She was an amazing, bright, funny, and kind soul! I remember high school and hanging with her! I will always remember the last time I saw her at Special Olympics (she had me walking around and she wanted to go with the cops lol) Alana was loved by many and will be missed! Love emz❤️
Jason Crook says
On behalf of our entire family—Beth, McKenna, Hunter, Jessie the dog, Gus and Max the cats, and the millions of honeybees in our care—we send our deepest condolences. Alana’s story is one of joy, resilience, and radical love. Though her time here was far too short, her light clearly touched countless lives. May her memory continue to inspire kindness, courage, and unapologetic authenticity in us all.
With love and sympathy,
Jason Crook (Uncle J) & Family
Mary says
I was Dr Kummer nurse Mary I was sorry to hear of Alana’s passing.You wrote a wonderful orbiuary I really was nice to she all she did!!
Pamela Spang says
I don’t know you but you made the most beautiful story of her life. So sorry for your loss.
Kim Stanton says
Dear family,
Thank you for writing such a lovely obituary for Alana— I enjoyed reading the personalization and the anecdotes you shared about Alana! Definitely one of the most memorable and touching obituaries I have read— It brought a tear to my eye, thinking of all the love that she brought to the world, and all the love that her family gave her. Sending prayers for your comfort and consolation today and in the coming days. May the Lord’s peace be with you all!
Kim Stanton
roger holt says
Kim, thank you for supporting Alana to be who she was and make her difference in this world. She shined in everything she did and created lasting memories for all she touched. And, funny, I lived in NewARK Delaware for a bit…RH
Katie Merkel says
My heart breaks for you. I remember the day I first met Alana in Forsyth. She was a wonderful young lady and a joy to work with at school. I was so happy when she joined the Bandits. You will be in my prayers.
Barbara & Jerry Lewis says
Dear Kim, Sal & siblings. We are so sorry for your loss. We only visited with Alana a few times but they were memorable times. She had so much energy that it made you feel her presence. Sending our love and prayers to all of you. Aunt Barbie & Uncle Jerry 💓
Bob Keele says
Sal, Kim, and family;
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all just now. A sweet sweet spirit was Alana and she truly touched those who were blessed to be in her presence.
Bob, Dee, and Lyla
Calene and Rick Smith says
Her huge loving heart was always there…so sorry that you had to lose her so soon we know she is brightening the day of even the angels now. Hugs
Rhonda McCarty says
On behalf of the entire Special Olympics Family,
Our deepest sympathy to all of Alana’s loving circle of support.
Alana will always be in our memories.
Rhonda McCarty, CEO
Mary DiBiase says
Kim and family, I’m so sorry for your loss and am truly honored to have met Alana. This obituary is one of such love, honor, and truth, and speaks volumes of the love the Alana gave and received. My heart is with you,
Mary DiBiase
Anton Ninno says
What a fabulous life she had. I’m sure you were a wonderful stepfather, Sal. Stay strong.
Patrick Maloney says
Sal, so sorry for your and the families loss. You will be in my prayers.
Linda Jackson says
Dear Sal and Kim,
Thank you for sharing Alana’s life story so completely for those of us who did not have the joy of meeting her. She was able to live life to the fullest with the loving support of her family. You will miss her keenly. Our family sends our condolences and prayers for your comfort. Linda, Eric and David Jackson (Ridgecrest Drive)