Maria Sanna, Carol Allen's Mom: Celebration of Life on October 2nd!
Posted
-
- Sep
- 25
- 2025
by Elizabeth Boisson
Maria Sanna / Clockwise: Maria with Lisa, Carol, Marilyn, and Josie
We are saddened to announce that Maria Sanna, the mother of HPH Board Member Carol Allen, has reunited with her grandson, Tyler, on the other side. Although we will miss her physical presence, we know that she is now happy, healthy, and home.
Maria was a radiant presence in our Helping Parents Heal family. She regularly attended meetings, participated in Tyler's annual hike, and, alongside her husband, Charlie Sanna, raised four beautiful daughters. Each daughter is a strong supporter of our mission and has a delightful family of her own.
Maria's legacy of love continues through Carol, a devoted HPH Board Member, Affiliate Leader, Caring Listener, and author of Mom, I’m Not Gone: Tyler Lives!, a touching tribute to Tyler’s ongoing presence.
Carol also shared her journey in Craig McMahon’s documentary, 'Life to Afterlife: Mom Can You Hear Me?' and contributed a chapter to our HPH book, 'Life to Afterlife: Helping Parents Heal, The Book.'
Maria’s son-in-law, Tony Allen, has given selflessly as our A/V volunteer at every HPH conference, embodying the spirit of service that defines this remarkable family.
We invite you to attend Maria's Celebration of Life to support Carol, Carol's father Charlie, and the entire family in honoring Maria's life. Your presence would mean so much.
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our dear Maria Sanna, who was called to her Heavenly home on September 19, 2025, at the age of 82. Maria was born on December 19, 1942, in Sicily, Italy, and her life was a testament to the enduring power of family and love.
Maria was preceded in death by her parents, Sebastian and Josephine Pino, and her loving grandson, Tyler Allen, who welcomed her into Heaven with open arms.
On June 9, 1962, Maria married the love of her life, Charles Sanna, in Cleveland, Ohio. Together, they built a beautiful life, full of love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to each other. In 1977, Maria and Charles moved to Arizona, where Maria continued to pour her heart into creating a loving and joyful home for her family.
As a mother, she dedicated herself completely to raising her four daughters: Carol, Josie, Marilyn, and Lisa. Her love for them knew no bounds, and she created a home that was filled with warmth, kindness, and unconditional support. She was a guiding light in their lives, always there with open arms, a listening ear, and words of encouragement.
As a grandmother, Maria’s love grew even deeper. She cherished every moment spent with her grandchildren TJ, Ryan, Tyler, Rachael, Conner, Brianna, Katelyn, Jackson, and Brooklyn. She was filled with pride and joy at the opportunity to watch them grow. Her great-grandchildren, Rylee and Noah, brought an even brighter light into her life.
Maria’s love was as constant as the desert sky. Whether she was cooking an Italian meal, playing golf with friends, or enjoying a day at the casino, every moment was a reflection of her joy. The memories she created and the love she shared will live on forever in the hearts of those who were blessed to call her mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.
Maria is survived by her loving husband, Charles; her four daughters, Carol Allen (Tony Allen), Josie Mack (John Mack), Marilyn McGrath (Mark McGrath), and Lisa Jemsek (Chris Jemsek); her cherished grandchildren, TJ Allen, Ryan Mack (Raquel Mack), Rachael Holt (Junior Holt), Conner McGrath, Brianna McGrath, Katelyn Jemsek, Jackson Jemsek, and Brooklyn Jemsek; and her precious great-grandchildren, Rylee Holt and Noah Holt.
Maria’s life was a beautiful example of devotion, love, and family. Though we will miss her deeply, her spirit will continue to surround and guide us, reminding us every day of the incredible love she gave and the legacy she leaves behind.
Enjoy Heaven, Maria. Your love will live forever in our hearts.
A memorial service to honor Maria’s life will be held at Oasis Community Church on October 2, 2025 at 11:00 am.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the church in her name by clicking here.
- Evolved Souls Don't Need Long Earthly Experiences October 2025
- Conference Providers for our Fourth Helping Parents Heal Conference, 2026!