Saundra "Sandy" Fracassi

After a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer's, it is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Saundra "Sandy" Fracassi, 81, of Yorktown Heights, NY on March 12, 2025.

She was born on August 29, 1943 in Mt. Kisco, NY to the late Stanley and Marion Roth. She is survived by her husband of 59 years, Gene, daughters, Stacey Falcone (Bill Haight), and Lauren Berk, her five adored grandchildren, Michael, Kyle, Danielle, Alex and Brandon, twin sister Karen Varletta (Michael) of Orlando, FL and brother Jay Roth (Mary Francis) of Jacksonville, FL.

Sandy grew up in Millwood, NY. Following her 1961 graduation from Horace Greeley High School in Chappaqua, NY, she traveled to Israel where she spent a year living on a Kibbutz. It is here that she worked, attended school and learned about her Jewish heritage of which she was very proud. She loved to share her experiences on the Kibbutz with her grandchildren and hoped that one day they too could have the opportunity to experience the same.

Upon her return from Israel, she began working at her parents' beauty salon in Chappaqua.

She met her husband, Gene, on a blind date and it was instant chemistry. Gene being Catholic and Sandy being Jewish, they decided to have two wedding ceremonies, the first on February 26, 1966, officiated by a Rabbi and the second on February 27, officiated by a Catholic Priest. They resided in Ossining and eventually moved to Yorktown Heights where they raised their two daughters, Stacey and Lauren.

Sandy worked as a hairdresser in Briarcliff Manor for 30 years. She loved her clients and they faithfully stayed with her for literally three decades!

Sandy was a beautiful person both inside and out. She was kind and compassionate, generous and thoughtful. She had a flair for fashion and dressed to the nines no matter where she went. She refused to leave the house until her hair was neatly styled and her make-up perfectly applied. She had an eclectic collection of jewelry and could always be seen wearing some really stylish earrings and necklaces!

She spent the winter months in Boynton Beach, FL, AKA her "Happy Place". She loved going to the beach and basking in the warmth of the sun. She enjoyed bowling, gardening, music, and loved reading those old school romance novels! She loved going to the movies with her many girl friends.

Her greatest love were her five grandchildren whom she absolutely cherished and adored. She wasn't shy in letting everyone know how handsome her grandson's were and how beautiful her granddaughter was! She loved to cook for them and quickly developed a reputation for making the world's greatest mashed potatoes and pancakes! They truly made her so very happy and it was such a joy for her to see them grow up into the kind-hearted, compassionate people they have become.

The last five years were extraordinarily hard for Sandy but she fought this ugly disease called Alzheimers with such grace and dignity. It brings us tremendous comfort to know that she is united in heaven with her beloved "Mommy B", son-in-law, Jeffrey, and her many extended family and friends that have passed along the way. Her love, kindness, and warm spirit will be deeply missed but lovingly remembered by all who had the pleasure of knowing her.

Donation in Sandy's name to The Alzheimer's Foundation of America.