Sandra Rossi

Sandra Ann Rossi, 84, of Oro Valley, Arizona, passed from this life to the next in heaven at 6:49am on August 29th 2025 - into the arms of Jesus and reunited with her parents and sister. She was born on November 5, 1940, in Worcester, Massachusetts, to the late Dominic Rossi and Columbia Sandini (Rossi), and grew up in Westborough Mass., where she cherished her childhood surrounded by the beauty of New England’s rolling hills. She was also preceded in death by her beloved sister, Constance Rossi.

Sandra lived a life marked by resilience, faith, and service. After graduating from Regis College, she spent time in Peru with Sister John’s Lay Teaching Apostolate, where she served underprivileged communities and deepened her lifelong gratitude for God’s daily provision.

She built an accomplished career in hospital administration, serving with dedication and compassion. After earning her master’s degree in hospital administration, Sandra worked as a hospital administrator for 15 years. Later, she became certified in counseling and spent 16 years with two major airlines, providing psychological support in their medical departments. Sandra’s professional life was one of deep compassion, marked by her presence as a first responder for families of victims lost in the September 11, 2001 tragedies on Flights 175 and 93. She was a steady source of comfort for grieving families and a witness to countless miracles of healing and reunion.

Her impact extended far beyond her career. Deeply rooted in her Christian faith and the 12-step community, Sandra shared her story of healing and forgiveness to inspire others. She guided individuals through recovery, supported countless families, and lived out her calling to be of service. She was also a devoted volunteer, giving her time to local museums, prayer groups, and church ministries.

Sandra was an active member of Santa Catalina Catholic Church in Catalina, where she served as a Eucharistic Minister, participated in prayer groups, and brought joy to children at Mass—including her beloved granddaughter, Abbey. For Sandra, Santa Catalina was not just a parish but a community that embraced her in love and faith.

Sandra’s greatest joy was her family. She is survived by her two sons, David Makepeace and Thomas Makepeace; her beloved grandchildren, Kersey Makepeace, David Leander Makepeace, and Abigail Makepeace; and her great-granddaughter, Layla Achziger. She is also survived by her daughter-in-law, Edna Makepeace, wife to Tom.

Sandra’s life was a testament to perseverance, grace, and love. To her family, she will always be remembered as Nonna or Noni, and to her friends as Sandy—a guiding light of faith, warmth, and devotion. She leaves behind a legacy of healing, service, and unconditional love.

Her funeral Mass will be celebrated at 12 Noon, on Monday, September 29, in St. Luke the Evangelist Church, 70 West Main Street, Westborough, MA.  Burial will follow in St. Luke's Cemetery, Westborough.

A memorial Mass will be held on Saturday, October 14, 2025, at 12 Noon in Santa Catalina Catholic Church in Catalina, Arizona. 

Family and friends are invited to attend and celebrate Sandra’s remarkable life of devotion and love.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be sent to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital via www.stjude.org/donate