Saveria Maria Scarpellino

Saveria Maria “Vera” Scarpellino, a beloved mother, grandmother, greatgrandmother, and great-great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on August 9, 2025, in Lancaster, California. She was 100 years old.

Born on July 21, 1925, in New Haven, Connecticut, Vera lived a life marked by resilience, dedication, and an unwavering work ethic. Her century-long journey was filled with accomplishments that reflected her strength of character and deep commitment to her family and community.

Vera dedicated 26 years of her professional life to the Aerospace Division at Hughes Aircraft Company. Her tenure there was a testament to her diligence and skill during a pivotal era in American industry. After retiring in 1985, she embarked on a new chapter that would become one of her proudest achievements—purchasing and operating the Green Valley Store and Cafe in 1986. She poured her heart into the business for over three decades, maintaining it until 2019 when she was 94 years old. The store became more than just a place of commerce; it was a gathering spot that reflected Vera’s warmth and entrepreneurial spirit.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Vera found joy in tending to her garden and nurturing the lives of those around her. She was known for being a wonderful mother and grandmother whose love extended across five generations.

She is survived by her children: Jenny Louise Reel, Saveria Mary Erickson, and Samuel William VanderGalien; as well as numerous grandchildren: Charles Wallace Lloyd III; Tylene Lloyd; Shalena Marie Perea; Crystal Elana Carraudo; Dennis Michael Reel; Todd Patrick Reel; Terry Michael Erickson jr; Travis Michael Erickson; Tania Deluca; Samuel William VanderGalien III: Skyler VanderGalien; Caylee VanderGalien; Christopher Oropeza; Candice Renee Jimenez; Ryan Scott Reel; Megan Nicole Reel; Eric Cole Reel; Stella Deluca; Montana Mae Reel; Abigale Jackson McAndrew Reel. As well as by her sister Tina Louise Scarpellino.

Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren: Ashleigh Marie Pursley; Wyatt Perea; Allison Perea; Lucas Perea; Jaxton Carraudo; Levi Carraudo; Odin Michael Erickson; Raven Violet Erickson; Nolan Clark Jimenez; Louis Scott Jimenez; and Lawerence Kevin Jimenez. She also leaves behind great-great-grandson Ryle Rhett Pursley.

Vera was preceded in death by her daughter Marie Elana Lloyd and son Arthur Franklin VanderGalien. She also mourned the loss of several grandchildren: Rhonda Marie Cloutier, Christopher Ryan Reel, James Scott Reel, and Daniel Michael Erickson. As well as her brothers Joseph Francis Scarpellino, Frank Louis Scarpellino and sister Caroline Ann Scarpellino.

Throughout her life, Vera exemplified perseverance and grace. Whether working long hours at Hughes Aircraft or welcoming customers into the Green Valley Store and Cafe with a smile, she left an indelible mark on all who knew her.

May her memory bring comfort to those who loved her and serve as an enduring reminder of a life well lived.