Sandra De Sotto

We gather here today to honor the memory of Sandra DeSotto—a loving mother, a devoted friend, and a soul whose heart was as vast as the world she lived in. Sandra's life, though marked by hardship, was also defined by love, sacrifice, and a strength that could only come from a truly compassionate spirit.

Sandra was the kind of person who always put others before herself. Even in her darkest hours, when she was battling her own pain—pain that would have broken many others—Sandra’s concern was never for her own suffering. She was always more worried about the well-being of those around her. She would "bite her tongue" in order not to hurt others with her own struggles. It was her nature to care, to put others' feelings above her own, and to seek the good in every person, even when that kindness was sometimes met with misunderstanding. Yet, no matter the setback, Sandra never stopped trying.

In her later years, as her health began to decline, Sandra’s mind sometimes faltered, and she would speak in ways that didn’t reflect the brilliance and clarity she once had. But even then, her selflessness remained. She never wanted to upset anyone. She was always trying to maintain peace, and in that, she taught us a valuable lesson: that love is not only found in what we say, but in the intentions behind our words and actions.

Sandra had a spirit that was as wild and free as the outdoors she so loved. She reveled in the beauty of a stormy sky, the thunder, the lightning—symbols of nature's power and unpredictability, much like her own life. Her heart was full of romance, always seeking the beauty in every situation, no matter how challenging. Her resilience, her ability to look for the silver lining, even when life was hard, will always be a source of inspiration for us all.

She often reminisced about the "better days"—those precious moments that seemed simpler, brighter. Songs, movies, and memories from what she called “A different life ago” would bring her joy, and in those moments, it was clear that she had lived a life full of love and rich experiences, even if those days were behind her.

Sandra was a guiding light to so many. She was the one who helped us find our way through dark times, offering comfort, compassion, and wisdom when we needed it most. Even when she herself was struggling, she managed to offer a hand, a kind word, or a quiet strength that reminded us all of what really mattered. Her patriotism and unwavering support for the armed forces reflected her deep sense of duty and love for her country. And her faith in God, though not always expressed through the traditional walls of the church, was felt deeply in the way she lived her life: with kindness, with humility, and with the belief that goodness could be found even in the hardest of times.

 Sandra was, and will always be, a shining star in the lives of those who knew her. The love and care she gave to others were immeasurable, and though she is no longer with us, her legacy will live on in the hearts of her children, her friends, and all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Sandra, you were a true shepherd—a protector, a nurturer, and a guiding force. You will be missed more deeply than words can express. Rest now, in peace, knowing you made the world a better place simply by being in it.

We love you, and we will carry your light with us, forever.

I love you to the moon and back. Forever and always mom.