Sarah D. Gianelli

Sarah was born on November 22, 1928, in Pittsburg, CA, to Guiseppe and Rosa DeLucca. She was raised by her maternal grandparents Francesco and Caterina Carini after the death of her mother in 1930.

Sarah fulfilled the hopes of her family for a better life. The daughter of an immigrant farm worker, she went on to become the valedictorian of her high school class. She married Robert (Bob) Gianelli in 1949, and together they created a beautiful life together, the embodiment of the immigrant's dream.

Sarah and Bob moved to Napa in 1953, where Bob launched his architectural career and together, they started their family. These were busy, happy times. Sarah volunteered, cultivated life-long friendships, raised her children, and picked up golf and tennis. Tennis became her passion. Sarah took lessons from her dear friend and tennis legend, Tom Stow. Her passion drove her to nearly twenty years of championships at Silverado. The competition, exercise, and varied friendships made through the sport were extremely important to her.

After her youngest was in high school, Sarah began a successful forty-year career in real estate, specializing in Silverado properties. Many of her clients also became close friends.

Sarah and Bob had a shared love of design. Many of their vacations were centered around art and architecture, passing along this love to their children, grandchildren, and great-granddaughter. Sarah continued her education throughout the years, often taking classes at Napa Valley College. Sarah grew up speaking Sicilian, but she studied standard Italian for many years. She remained active and vibrant and continued her Italian lessons, bridge, tai chi and spending time with friends and family until the end of her life.

Sarah was cared for by her daughters: Christy, and Laura; son-in-law, Jim Gholson; grandchildren: Trevor (Juliana) Gholson, Jordan (Jenny) Gianelli, and Schylar Gholson; and is survived by granddaughter, Alexandra Gianelli; great-grandchildren: Hayden Gholson and Nico Gianelli; and son, Stephen (Katerina) of Greece. Sarah is also survived by a close but small group of cousins, nieces, and nephews. Sarah is predeceased by her husband of 63 years, Robert; brothers: Vincent (Grace) and Frank; sister, Laura; and brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Gordon and Sue Gianelli.

The family would like to thank Dr. Sean Kaer, and Providence Hospice, particularly Janine, Alex, and Gene for their compassionate care, and the members of YLI for their prayers. We would also like to acknowledge Sarah's many friends for their outpouring of affection.

In honor of her memory, donations can be made to Providence Queen of the Valley Hospice Care or the Queen of the Valley Foundation.

Con tutto il nostro amore, Mamma.

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