Serafina Almerinda Alò

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Serafina Almerinda Torchia Alò, in Houston, Texas. She peacefully departed this world, leaving behind a lifetime of cherished memories, a significant legacy and a profound impact on all who knew her.

Serafina was born on December 15, 1937, in Johnsonburg, Pennsylvania, to her loving parents, Francis and Josephine DiNardo Torchia. She grew up as the second of three siblings, joining her older sister, Theresa and younger brother, Ermenegildo Torchia-all of whom preceded her in death, as well as her daughter Michelina Luisa Alò.

From an early age, Serafina displayed a remarkable sense of compassion and a genuine interest in helping others. Throughout her life, Serafina dedicated herself to the field of education. She served as an esteemed elementary school teacher at Jamestown NY, Waitsburg PA ISD, and Alief ISD, Alief TX. In 1958, she obtained a BA in Education from Mercyhurst College in Erie, PA. Her devotion for Special Education began in 1973 as a co-founder of the Pittsburgh PA branch of the Association for Children with Learning Disabilities. In 1995, she received a MA in Special Education from the University of St. Thomas, Houston, Texas. This launched her renewed career as a ten-year Special Education teacher in the Alief ISD, inspiring countless students and colleagues. Her passion for teaching and commitment to excellence made her a beloved mentor and a true role model in the academic community.

Serafina’s impact on her community was profound and multifaceted, rooted in her faith, family values, and commitment to education and cultural heritage. She was a devoted wife to her beloved husband, Richard Anthony Alò, whom she married on July 23, 1960. Together, they created a warm and loving home filled with laughter and love. Serafina cherished her role as a mother to her four children, Melanie Jeanne, Kenneth Mark, Lili Roseanne and Michelina Luisa Alò, providing unwavering support, guidance, and unconditional love. She was deeply devoted to her religious beliefs, making pilgrimages to sacred sites such as Fatima and Medjugorje. These journeys reflected her role as a spiritual guide and advocate, inspiring others in her community to strengthen their faith and embrace traditions. In 1968, alongside her husband and the Oratory Fathers of Pittsburgh, Serafina co-founded the Pittsburgh Universities Tech House, an initiative designed to engage university students in the spirit of John Cardinal Newman. This effort provided a platform for young adults to explore and express the living tradition of the Church, fostering intellectual and spiritual growth. Her devotion to family extended beyond her own household. Serafina nurtured strong ties within her extended family and Italian heritage, creating a warm environment that celebrated cultural traditions. This sense of unity and belonging rippled through her community, reinforcing values of love, respect, and togetherness. Known for her vibrant spirit and infectious laughter, Serafina brought joy to those around her. She loved watching baseball, especially the Astros. She enjoyed gardening, puzzles, adventurous travels, and community gatherings, and inspired others to embrace life fully. Her legacy of love, faith, and joy continues to inspire all who knew her.

A woman of faith, Serafina was an active member of St. Vincent de Paul Roman Catholic Church, where she found solace, strength, and a sense of community. She touched the lives of many through her involvement in their Children’s Catechetical Classes. She was secretary of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Curia 2015-2021, Secretary of the Legion of Mary’s Our Lady Help of Christians 2010-2016, its Vice President 2023-2025, and in various charitable organizations, always seeking opportunities to make a positive difference in the lives of others.

Serafina will be forever missed and lovingly remembered by her husband, Richard; her surviving children, Melanie Jeanne Alò [Sid Larriviere], Kenneth Mark Alò [Kimberly], Lili Roseanne Alò McRae [Sean]; her grandchildren: Keenan Francis Larriviere, Liam Richard Larriviere, Kimberly McRae Lykke [Jason], Phillip McRae [Corinne], Nicholas Alò [Kelsey], Chriistopher Alò [Sandra], Connor Alò [Cora],Cameron Alò, Katelyn Alò, and her great grandchildren: Harper Lykke, Paxton Lykke, Sophia Lykke, Declan McRae, Josephine McRae, Carolena McRae, Duke McRae, Serafina Alò, Olivia Alò, Jack Alò, and a wide circle of family, friends, and colleagues. Her memory will be kept alive through the countless lives she touched and the legacy of kindness and compassion she leaves behind.

A Requiem Mass to celebrate Serafina's life will be held on December 30 at 10am at St. Vincent de Paul Roman Catholic Church [SVDP], 6800 Buffalo Speedway, Houston, Texas, which will be live-streamed. Viewing by the public will be held in Our Lady of Lourdes Chapel at SVDP Church on December 29 from 5pm to 8pm with a recitation of the Rosary at 6 pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made in Serafina's memory to St. Vincent de Paul’s CCE Program or the Legion of Mary SW Council. Donations may be sent via Zelle to 281-620-8933. Please designate to which organization the donation is being made.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to all the caregivers of Hail Mary Care who attended to Serafina these last few years; and to all those who have offered their condolences, love, and support during this difficult time.

To share memories, offer condolences, or sign the guestbook, please visit https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/12671471

May Serafina's spirit rest in eternal peace, and may her light continue to shine bright in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.