Sandra Lee Rinaldi Sciola, a passionate gardener, excellent solver of crosswords, lifelong lover of Jeopardy!, and avid appreciator of Siamese cats and Shetland Sheepdogs, passed away on April 11, 2026. Raised in Becket, Massachusetts, Sandy spent a brief period of time living abroad before returning to the Berkshires. In 2017, she relocated to North Carolina to be closer to family.
Sandy was born on August 3, 1959 to Marjorie Drummond and Anthony Rinaldi in Pittsfield, Massachusetts. A truly compassionate person, she held many helper roles throughout her life,including at the Berkshire Talking Chronicle, the Rape Crisis Center, Kripalu Center for Yoga &Health, and the Tutorial Services office at Berkshire Community College. She had a curious mind, and spent many hours of her life reading. Sandy also had an infectious laugh, and it was common for her to get into fits of laughter when spending time with her sister Cyndie, or when watching The Honeymooners with her husband, Ben.
Sandy will be lovingly remembered by Benedetto Sciola, her husband of 35 years, children Sarah Kermensky (Nathan Clevenger), Hailey Rinaldi (Brady Haig), Ben Sciola Jr. (Melissa Sciola), Dan Sciola (Kelly Sciola), Nicole Pona (John Pona) and her grandchildren Ian Haig, Phoebe Haig, Lily Sciola, Nora Sciola, Landon Sciola, Luke Sciola, Kenzie Pona, and Ellie Pona as well as members of her extended family.
A memorial to celebrate Sandy’s life will be held in summer 2026.
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Sandy was a truly special soul, and I will always cherish the memories of our time growing up together in the Berkshires. Her laughter was such a gift—it's easy to picture her right now, smiling at something my mom or granny said. She had a heart of pure gold and a spirit that was always ready to help others. To Ben, Sarah, and Haley: my heart and prayers are with you all. May you find peace knowing she lives on in your hearts and minds, and may the Lord watch over you during this time.
Sandy you will be missed for your infectious laugh, your curious mind, and your huge heart for everyone you cared for including your animals. Until we see each other again and share a cup of tea and a laugh watch over us all. Love you cuz!
Hailey, We are so very sorry to hear of your mom's passing. We have very fond memories of your mom and you! Ginger & Jerry Lamb
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