Sandra Ann (Wilson) Zappia

Sandra Ann Wilson Zappia, 72, of Baldwinsville and formerly of Massena, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 4, 2024. She was born in Massena on May 16, 1952 to Robert and Georgette (Rougeau) Wilson. 

Sandra graduated from Holy Family High School in 1970, the same year she married David Zappia. In 1974, she earned her bachelor’s degree with honors from SUNY Potsdam. Sandra went on to teach social studies at Massena Central High School for 26 years, retiring in 2007. During her career, she served as one of the presidents of the Massena Summer School Teachers’ Union until its dissolution when BOCES took over the program. Sandra was also appointed to the Massena Museum Board, where she served as secretary for many years. In 2002, she and her husband collaborated on a presentation celebrating Massena’s bicentennial. She was a devoted longtime communicant of St. Mary’s Church – St. Peter’s Parish in Massena.

A dedicated caretaker, Sandra looked after both her father and her husband for several years. After David’s passing in 2022, she moved to Baldwinsville, where she embraced a vibrant community at Red Mill Manor and fulfilled her dream of 'living on the water.' An avid reader, with a collection of over 2,200 Kindle books, Sandra also had a deep love for 1960s pop music. However, her greatest joy came from spending time with her family, especially her beloved grandchildren.

Sandra was predeceased by her husband, David, in 2022; and parents.

Surviving are her daughters, Heather (Craig) Carlough of Lancaster, PA, and Samantha (Michael) Kasmarek of Camillus; precious grandchildren, Adam and Catherine Kasmarek; and sister, Christine (Joseph) Cacozza of Utica; and several nieces and nephews. 

To celebrate Sandra’s life, relatives and friends are invited to gather on Wednesday, October 9, 2024, from 10 to 11 a.m. at St. Mary of the Assumption, 47 Syracuse St., Baldwinsville. A funeral Mass will follow in the church.

Sandra will be laid to rest in Calvary Cemetery, Massena.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of one's choice or the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation, 230 East Ohio St., Ste. 500, Chicago, IL 60611.

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