Sarah Aylesworth Spaniolo, 78, who was devoted to her family, friends and church community, died January 7, 2025, unexpectedly of a cardiac event in Trinity, Florida.
Sarah, affectionately known to most as Sally was born March 18, 1946, in Washington, D.C. She was the third of four girls born to Phillip and Marian Aylesworth. She spent her childhood through high school years in Alexandria, VA. She enrolled at Michigan State University in 1964 following in the path of her mother and two older sisters. She graduated with honors with a bachelor’s and master’s degree in history. Sally was a student leader on campus and served as the President of the Panhellenic Council and Tower Guard. In addition, she was a member of the Honors College, Delta Gamma sorority, and Spartan Roundtable. Throughout her entire life, Sally made an everlasting contribution to MSU, truly embodying the Spartan spirit.
Most of her life centered around her family and friends. As a devoted mother, she raised her two children, Jamie and Sarah Spaniolo with intense love, nurturing and pride.
Sally lived in many places including, Florida, Michigan and Texas. She was the driving force of integrating her family into each new home, seamlessly making new friends and becoming actively involved in the faith community of her church.
After raising her children, she had a successful and fulfilling 17-year career. She worked for the Honors Colleges of Michigan State University and Southern Methodist University as an Academic Advisor and Associate Director. She was devoted to her students and went above and beyond to help them achieve their goals.
Sally made one last move to Tampa, Florida in 2018 to be closer to her daughter and son’s family, including three granddaughters. She loved spending quality time with them, sharing many birthdays, holidays and special occasions.
Sally possessed true grit, determination and compassion. Her positive outlook and strong Christian faith allowed her to survive even the toughest of times. Her faith and love of Jesus Christ reflected how she treated others and lived her life. She made and retained friends for life because she cherished each one of them.
She is survived by her two children, Jamie and Sarah Spaniolo, and three grandchildren, Carson, Riley and Devin.
A memorial service will be held at Tampa Covenant Church (13320 Lake Magdalene Blvd, Tampa, FL 33618) at 2 pm on Saturday, March 1st. In lieu of flowers the family has asked that donations be made to the Sally Spaniolo Honors College Fund at Michigan State University in memory of her. Gifts can be mailed to Michigan State University, 535 Chestnut Rd, Room 300, East Lansing, MI 48824. Memorial or tribute gifts can also be made online at https://givingto.msu.edu/gift/?sid=19826
Local arrangements have been entrusted to Dobies Funeral Homes.
Sally (Patterson) Jaggar
January 16, 2025, 2:28 pm
I am so shocked and saddened by Sally’s sudden death. She and I were best friends in high school, and were in communication as recently as last November. She was a bridesmaid in my wedding long ago. I know she made huge contributions to many in her years working at universities, but of course her absolute pride and joy was for Sarah and Jamie… and grandkids. She made so many wonderful contributions to so many people…was a true “giver” to others. I was one of those lucky beneficiaries…a friend for more than 60 years.
My heart goes out to you all, but I know your memories will be warm and full and happy.
Charles V Spaniolo
January 17, 2025, 10:15 pm
My introduction to the Aylesworth family was having Nancy, Sally’s sister, in a history class at Michigan State. She was an excellent student & became an outstanding teacher. Sally was cut from the same bolt of cloth: extremely bright, kind, & a person who made friends for herself and whatever school she represented. So sorry all that brightness is no longer with us. Ginger joins me in extending heartfelt condolences to Jamie & Sarah , and extended family. With love and sympathy, Chuck Spaniolo
Michaele Fath
January 20, 2025, 12:53 am
I was also shocked, to find out that Sally was no longer with us. The class of 64 was in touch with her in September. We all wish she would’ve attended our class reunion.. She will be greatly missed. My prayers go out to her family.
Cathy Wyatt
January 21, 2025, 1:53 am
The grief takes my breath away and my heart breaks for Jamie and Sarah. It’s an unfathomable loss. We are, however, reminded of God’s great promises to Sally who loved and served Him. “In sure and certain hope of the resurrection” she is with Jesus and I will see her again!
Kari Stainback
January 21, 2025, 4:12 pm
Sally came to Dallas ready to be a significant part of our church, with a heart to give and receive all available in Christ. She always showed evidence of humility and the strength of Christ within her. I know you will miss her dearly – what a wise and loving woman!
Barbara Ryan
January 22, 2025, 1:13 am
Am so very sad for Jamie and his wife and children and for Sarah to have my dear friend and their mom/grandma taken home so suddenly!!!! And I am so glad I have a storehouse of fun memories of the many fun dinners, conversations, outings that Sally, Terri and I shared during her years in Dallas! I smile and laugh just remembering some of our adventures and mis-adventures. Being on the phone with Jamie after Sally’s shoulder surgery before I knew Jamie was her son, for instance! Am stills shaking my head with laughter! Thank goodness for our Lord Jesus Christ who has gone before us, has welcomed Sally, and will welcome each of us who know Him on that Great Day. And after that, there will be no more missing!!! Love to the sisters too, Barbara Ryan
Barbara Smith
January 22, 2025, 1:24 am
Dear Sarah, Jaimie and family, I met Sally through a Bible study group in our community in Florida. We occasionally would have lunch together. She had such a witty outlook on life and never despaired when obstacles came her way, just pushing through step by step. It was a shock to learn of her sudden passing. I’m cheered because I know where she is and that I will see her again!