Sally Reed Pensabene

PENSABENE, SALLY REED, 78, passed away peacefully in her home on Jan. 23, 2012. Born in Syracuse, NY, Sally was a graduate of St. Anthony's Convent School and holds a B.S. degree from LeMoyne College, Syracuse, NY, in Social Science. Sally was predeceased by her husband of 48 years, Saverio F. 'Sam' Pensabene, as well as five siblings, Mary Ann Nichols, Thomas Reed II, William Reed, Rita Reed-Trivalino, and Margaret Sprague. Since moving to Gainesville with her husband Sam, in 1963, Sally was an active community volunteer serving in leadership roles for the GE Wives Club, Palm View Civic Association, Littlewood PTO, as well as the Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts of America. Sally played an active role in Holy Faith Catholic Church where she was a member for over 35 years. She taught Sunday School for nearly 20 years and eventually served as Director of Religious Education. An educator at heart, Sally held various roles with the Alachua County School system including Aide to Principal of Prairie View Elementary and Aide to the Guidance Department where she assisted in evaluating student eligibility for Exceptional Education programs. As a writer and illustrator, Sally's work on the Annual Report of School Progress for Prairie View was recognized by the State of Florida Department of Education. Sally was a talented poet and illustrator who, on occasion was published in the Catholic Digest and other periodicals. Sally is survived by her three children, David Pensabene, Paula Zahn and Phyllis Davis (Stefan); her beloved niece, Amanda Reed Thompson (Darryl); six grandchildren, Nicholas Pensabene, Alexandra Zahn, Steven Pensabene, Samantha Zahn, Miles Davis and Mason Davis; and numerous nieces and nephews. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 1 PM on Friday, Jan. 27, 2012 at Holy Faith Catholic Church, 747 NW 43rd St., Gainesville, FL. There will be a visitation Thursday evening from 4 to 7 PM at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Forest Meadows Central. Milam Funeral and Cremation Services, 311 S. Main St., Gainesville, FL 32601 (352) 376-5361.