Sandra Gioia

Sandra (Santagati) Gioia, 93, of Methuen, MA, passed away on Wednesday, May 6, 2020, at Prescott House in North Andover, MA. Born in Lawrence, MA, she was the daughter of the late Santo and Antonina (Savoca) Santagati.

Raised and educated in Lawrence, Sandra was a graduate of Lawrence High School. She worked as a hairdresser with her sister, Connie, for many years, though later transitioned into an administrative assistant at AVCO and retired after thirty-five years of service. She was a parishioner of Corpus Christi Parish at Holy Rosary Church in Lawrence.

Sandra’s life revolved around her family. She spent many Sundays and holidays cooking her famous lasagna, meatballs and sauce for her children and grandchildren. Her home was always filled with joy and laughter. Sandra always made everyone feel comfortable and loved. Sandra had a big heart.

She was predeceased by her husband, Peter Gioia; her brothers, Charles, Anthony, and Joseph Santagati; and her sisters, Catherine DiGrazia and Constance Spatola.

Sandra is survived by her children, Peter Gioia and his wife Donna of Methuen, Nancy Forzese and her husband Thomas of Methuen, and Nina Charpentier and her husband Thomas of Lunenburg, MA.  She also leaves nine grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

Due to the current Covid-19 restrictions, all services will be private with the family. Burial will be in Bellevue Cemetery in Lawrence.  Cataudella Funeral Home in Methuen is assisting the family with arrangements.  In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Sandra’s name to Alzheimer’s Association, 309 Waverley Oaks Road, Waltham, MA 02452 or www.alz.org.