Judith E. Sapio

Judith E. Sapio (née Klatt) June 4, 1937 – March 12, 2025 Buffalo, NY

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Judith E. Sapio, our beloved mother, grandmother, sister, cousin and friend. Judie peacefully passed at home, surrounded by the love and comfort of her family. She was the daughter of the late Evelyn Klatt Wicks and Arthur Klatt, and the cherished wife of the late Erminio “Herman” Sapio. Judie is survived by her daughter, Amy Shiley (Tim), and her son, Thomas “Jake” Sapio (Becky), as well as her five devoted grandchildren: Madeline, Ethan, Olivia, Isabel, and Luke. She adored her brother David and her favorite sister-in-law/partner- in-crime, Lucille Klatt. She also cherished her dear sweet cousins and nephews throughout her life. A retired kindergarten teacher, Judie was known for her unwavering dedication to her students and her abundant patience with shoe tying and proper pencil grips. Grown adults were known to have approached our mom decades later, to share how much they loved being in her classroom. A woman of grace and kindness, Judie’s beautiful smile could light up any room. She was the epitome of a lady—sweet, caring, and ever thoughtful. Judie was devoted to her family and friends and was a constant presence at her grandchildren’s sporting events and accomplishments. She was also famous for her creative birthday cakes, delicious chocolate continental frosting and mastering her family recipe for Fastnacht Kiechles. Judie enjoyed winning at cards and could never have her house temperature too warm. Judie loved meeting her retired teacher ladies each Wednesday for lunch and stayed closely connected to her Bishops’ Committee lunch bunch. Judie was also a lifelong lover of animals and committed champion of animal rescue. Her favorite sayings, such as “Stay calm and carry on” and, most recently, “See you later, alligator,” reflected her optimism and spirited outlook on life. We are forever grateful to the aides and the many gifted providers at Hospice who provided such beautiful care for our mom during her final days. Eat ice cream for breakfast as a special treat, appreciate the wildlife in your own back yard, rescue a shelter pet or paint something yellow if you want to celebrate Judie’s amazing life. The family will be present Monday, March 24th, from 4 to 7 PM at F E Brown Sons Funeral Home, 6575 E. Quaker Street, Orchard Park, NY where a Celebration of Judie’s life will be held Tuesday, March 25th, at 10:00 AM. Judith will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her, but her legacy of love and kindness will live on in the hearts of her family and dear friends. A donation may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital in her memory. St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital 262 Danny Thomas Place Memphis, TN 38105.