Sophie Karnillow LaBarbera

Our beloved mother, Sophie Karnillow LaBarbera passed away peacefully June 11, 2010. She was born to Tihon and Leontina Karnillow October 1, 1921, in Manhatten, New York. Sophie married Frank Joseph LaBarbera September 5, 1942. She will be greatly missed by her four children, Christine Lovelace of Alvin, Texas; Philip LaBarbera of Nacogdoches, Texas; Helen Magee of Houston, Texas; and Matthew LaBarbera of Austin, Texas. "Grandma Sophie" is survived by nine grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her two sisters, Helen Cvirko and Pauline Karnillow of Bradenton, Florida. Sophie is preceded in death by her parents; grandson, Brian Phillip LaBarbera; and great-grandson Timothy LaBarbera. Ms. LaBarbera was a resident of Nacogdoches for over thirty years. An active member of the community; she was a charter member of the Women's Reading Club, an active member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church Ladies Guild and served a term as president of the Nacogdoches Women's Republican Club. A homemaker at heart, Sophie was a fantastic cook, seamstress and proficient knitter. In addition to her activities, she always had time for her children's activities. She was a Brownie and Girl Scout leader for her older daughter, Christine, and made time to go to her elder son, Philip's, Little League baseball games. She also found time to be an Avon representative, which she found very fulfilling. Sophie spent the later years of her life living with her son, Philip. In the last years of her life, we were very fortunate to find a loving caretaker, Clara Segrest of Tyler, Texas. The two of them loved each other dearly. Miss Sophie will truly be missed by all of her family, but we know she will be in a better place, at peace with her God. Service will be at 3 p.m. Sunday, June 13, 2010, at Cason Monk-Metcalf Sunset Chapel with Monsignor James E. Young officiating. The family will receive friends from 6 until 8 p.m. Saturday, June 12, at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Sacred Heart Catholic Ladies Guild; 2508 Appleby Sand Road, Nacogdoches, Texas 75965.