Santa 'Sandy' Zona

Santa “Sandy” Zona, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 26th at the age of 97. Born in Biano, Italy, on May 18, 1929, Sandy lived a life defined by faith, devotion to family, generosity, and joy. She immigrated to the United States with her mother in 1947, celebrating her 18th birthday aboard the ship carrying her toward a new life in America. Soon after settling in Pennsylvania, she met Anthony “Tony” Zona, her beloved husband and fellow Italian immigrant, with whom she built a beautiful life centered on faith, hard work, family, and community. Together, Sandy and Tony raised their family in New Castle, Pennsylvania, where they owned Zona’s Tailoring & Boutique. A gifted seamstress and extraordinary cook, Sandy became known for her Italian pastries, soups, and treasured family recipes passed down through generations. Her kitchen was always filled with laughter, conversation, and gatherings where every meal carried what she believed was the most important ingredient: love. Even at 97, Sandy continued cooking, baking, and welcoming family and friends into her home in St. Petersburg, Florida. People were drawn to her warmth, humor, kindness, and radiant spirit. She lived in the light and love of Mother Mary and shared that joy freely with everyone she met.

Sandy was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Anthony “Tony” Zona, and her cherished son, Louis Zona.

She is survived by her loving daughters, Carmi Paris (Joe Driscoll) and ToniAnn Iler (Rick Iler); her grandsons Louis Zona and Michael Zona; five great-grandchildren; and many dear friends and extended family members.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held June 4th at 10:30 AM at Holy Spirit Parish- St. Camillus Church. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the William F. & Roger M. DeCarbo Funeral Home, 926 Cunningham Avenue.