Sandra (Rufo) Luongo

Sandra Luongo of Methuen, formerly Stoneham passed away peacefully at her home on Tuesday December 14. She was 79 years old.

Sandra was the beloved wife of 45 years to her husband, the late Angelo Luongo. She leaves behind her devoted son Michael Luongo and his wife Melissa as well as her stepson Mark Luongo and his wife Cheryl. She was the cherished "Nonnie" to her granddaughter Abigail Luongo. Sandra is also survived by her loving sister Cheryl Rigoli and her husband James. She leaves behind her much-loved niece and nephew; Darcie McFadries and her husband Steve and Brian Rigoli and his partner Jill Grano. She will be greatly missed by her grand nieces Stephanie McFadries and her fiancée Devin Luce and Danielle McFadries. Sandra also will be remembered fondly by her sister-in-law Claire Garrett and her husband Mike along with daughter Laurie MacGilvray Lamb. She is predeceased by her parents Florence and Daniel Rufo.

Sandra was born and raised in Newton, Massachusetts. In her early years she was talented in Roller Skating dance. She graduated from Newton North High School. Shortly after graduation she traveled to California. Legendary stories came from this adventure which her family will remember fondly. When she arrived back home she began work as a secretary for Harvard University. She later worked for IBM in the same role. In 1975, she married the love of her life and best friend Angelo Luongo. Together they bought a house in Stoneham, Massachusetts where they lived happily for 43 years. Once her son Michael was born, she dedicated her time to raising their family. She was admired for keeping the house impeccably clean and organized. Her home became a gathering place for all. She would host several memorable Christmas, Thanksgiving, and Easter holidays for family. Neighborhood friends and family will always remember pool parties that lasted to the late hours.

Sandra loved traveling with her husband, family, and friends. She was fortunate enough to see many beautiful destinations in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Caribbean, and Europe. Some of her most memorable trips included: touring Italy, visiting the Greek islands, exploring Hawaii, and cruising the Virgin Islands. Sandra and Angelo also took annual long-term trips to Florida.

Sandra had a gift for making lasting lifelong friendships. She had a close group of friends from her younger years in Newton along with her neighbors in Stoneham that she had regular outings with throughout her life. When vacationing, Sandra always connected with new people from different backgrounds resulting in a cherished collection of friends from all over the United States and Canada. These friends became like a second family, taking future vacations together throughout the world. Sandra would also host these friends at her home and show them some of the sights of the Boston area. This is a testament to Sandra's personality. She was likeable, fun to be around, and hospitable. She will be remembered as a genuine and caring person.

Family and friends are cordially invited to attend a Funeral Mass Celebrating Sandra's Eternal Life on Tuesday December 21st at 10am at Saint Patrick's Church, 71 Central Street, Stoneham. Interment immediately following at Saint Patrick's Cemetery, Stoneham.