Saurini, Linda M.

Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Colossians 3:12

Predeceased by parents, Emanuel “Walter” and Josephine DiNoto Saurini and brother-in-law, Angelo DiMaggio. Devoted sister to Carol (Patrick) Schofield, Sandra DiMaggio, Anthony (Christine) Saurini and sister at heart, Maryann Manion. Loving Aunt to Michael (Cindi) Chard, Michelle Chard Neisen, Angela (Tanner) Cross, Anthony Saurini and Austin Saurini. Also survived by Uncle Lawrence (Laverne) DiNoto and Aunt “Zia” Anna Saurini. She will be especially remembered with love by Joe Saurini, Bob and Mary Ledsome, Jim and Tyler Ledsome, Rita Nied, the Cook family (especially Garrett), Joe and Janet Shortino, the Gentile family and Jan Leary.

Broken-hearted, we gathered together to mourn the loss of our special sister, affectionately known to us as “Lolly,” who left us suddenly and too soon. As we laughed and cried and shared story after story, an image of Lolly emerged. Each of us chose a word that we felt best described her. Loyal, vibrant, compassionate, faithful, humble, angelic, patient, fun-loving, gentle, patriotic, organized. Her magnificent heart was a blessing to all who knew her. Lolly was not just our sister – she became everyone’s sister. But none of us could know the bond that she experienced with her sister, Sandra – a confidant, counselor and constant companion. The bond of love that connected the two of them was distinct and unique. Sharing a home and sharing their lives for the last 16 years, they became a beacon of light, love and commitment to family and to the Lord for all to follow. Like puzzle pieces, they fit perfectly together weaving a fabric of love that covered everyone that entered their home.

Lolly had no children of her own, but opened her arms and her heart and was the best second “Mom” to her niece, Angela. Many years ago, Angela gave Linda the nickname of “Lolly” which was shortened to LOL. Today that acronym means Laugh Out Loud – so appropriate since Lol brought laughter and joy to all who knew her. Lolly’s loving heart also welcomed many other children who thought of her as a special aunty or grandma, including Garrett Cook, Tyler Ledsome, Drake Knopfel, and Julia, Rachel and Emily Lawner. She loved and cherished to special doggies – Zachary and Abby – who predeceased her.

Lolly had a successful career in the dental field as an office manager and consultant. An accomplished organist and singer, she contributed to the music ministry of Holy Spirit Church. She was an avid reader, card player, movie buff, I Love Lucy fan and a formidable opponent to many on Words with Friends.

Lolly had a special gift with organization and she kept the family in order not just with the vacation and party planning spreadsheets and everyday lists, but also with acute accounting skills. By far, though, Lolly’s greatest attribute was her keen sense of humor. Always with endless good humor and a quick smile, she made everyone around her smile and made every day better. Lolly could bring laughter and light to the darkest of situations and laughter where there were tears. Her special, quirky humor was always on point at any given moment.

Lolly’s greatest example to all of us was how to live as a humble and obedient servant of the Lord. It takes great inner strength and confidence to be humble. Lolly was that foundational strength in our family. She was always in the background waiting to lend a helping hand, a word of encouragement or to share her generous and unconditional love. We are reminded of the parable that Jesus told about the man who was invited to a wedding feast. He didn’t vie for an important seat but rather took the least important seat at the back of the table. This story has a happy ending as the host noticed him and moved him to an honored place at the feast. We are certain that the Lord has moved Lolly to a place of honor for being His faithful servant.

Her unconditional love was a steady influence that encouraged us to explore and soar to greater heights. Lolly was a rare and treasured blessing to all who knew her. In her absence, she would not want us to linger long in sadness, but to remember and cherish the laughter, the joy and the good times we have shared. In tribute to her, we post this final list which we believe would have her approval.

1. Love your family and support one another unconditionally
2. Laugh every day
3. Honor God by your thoughts and your deeds
4. Start and end each day with gratitude and prayer
5. Cherish every moment
6. Be kind to people, the earth, and the animals
7. Pray for the leadership of the United States of America
8. Learn as much as you can and never stop learning
9. Always be ready to bake cookies
10. Change the sheets every Thursday

We say good bye to Linda Mae “Lolly” Saurini on earth knowing that her heavenly body rejoices. So, in Lolly’s stead we ask each of you to REJOICE and celebrate that Lolly is now in the arms of her Father. Dancing and singing. Safe and forever loved.

A memorial service to celebrate Lolly’s life is planned for the Spring (date and location to be announced). In lieu of flowers, contributions toward Linda’s funeral arrangements will be gratefully accepted. Please send to Anthony Saurini at 40955 Taylorstown Meadows Place, Lovettsville VA 20180.