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GIRARD -- Sandra Acerra, 76, departed this life on Friday, Sept. 25, 2026, at Shepherd of the Valley.
She was born on Oct. 30, 1949, in Youngstown, a daughter to Thomas “Jack” and Rose Booth Tocco.
Sandra was a proud 1967 graduate of Ursuline High School. She continued her education at the University of Detroit Mercy, where she graduated in 1971 with a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing.
Sandra's life was a testament to the power of love, compassion and dedication to serving others. As a registered nurse and a proud member of St. Elizabeth's Nurse Auxiliary Board, she also served on the Board of Directors for the Youngstown Council of Catholic Nurses and volunteered at the Joanie Abdu Comprehensive Breast Cancer Center.
Sandra was a devoted member of St. Rose Church. Her Catholic faith was a guiding light throughout her life, inspiring her commitment to serving others and shaping the way she cared for those around her.
Reading was one of Sandra's favorite pastimes, but nothing compared to the joy she found in spending time with her family. She treasured the moments they shared together, as well as the peaceful days she spent enjoying the beauty and serenity of the beach. These simple moments brought her great happiness and created cherished memories that her loved ones will hold close to their hearts.
Sandra was a loving wife to Joseph Acerra, whom she married on July 30, 1971. Their enduring love story was the bedrock upon which they built a family that mirrored her own kindness and warmth.
Sandra leaves to cherish her memory her loving husband, Joseph Acerra; her children, Haldre (Wes) Rafferty and Justin (Katy) Acerra; and her beloved grandchildren, Abbie, Nick and Joey.
Along with her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Jackie Gearig.
A memorial Mass will take place at 1 p.m. Friday, Oct. 23, 2026, at St. Rose Catholic Church, 48 Main St., Girard, OH 44420. A celebration of Sandra’s life will follow from 3 to 7 p.m. at the Village Banquet Center, 1057 Illinois Ave., McDonald, OH 44437.
To view this obituary and to send any expressions of sympathy to the family, please visit www.blackstonefuneralhome.com.
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