Evelyn B. Sarno, known lovingly by many as Ev, passed away peacefully in her sleep on July 26, 2026, in Cincinnati, Ohio, at the age of 101. Born Evelyn Barbara Calabrese on November 13, 1924, in Brooklyn, New York, her life was a rich tapestry of devotion, warmth, and kindness—a legacy cherished by all who knew her.

Evelyn’s early years in Brooklyn shaped her lifelong love of craft and design. She attended Textile High School in New York City, where she was a proud member of the Sewing Club, her favorite courses were draping & design and history. Her experiences at school became foundational for her future, nurturing skills and passions that she would pour into her family and community.

Her working life began as a seamstress, which blended her love of fabric with her desire to create comfort and beauty for those around her. Later, Evelyn became a preschool teacher, drawn to the joy and energy of young children. She taught Sunday School and preschool at her church, always embracing opportunities to guide, support, and uplift others. Alongside her beloved husband Buddy, she touched lives far beyond her community, volunteering at the Mexican Christian Children’s Home in Querétaro, Mexico, and demonstrating her unwavering commitment to service and faith.

Evelyn’s creativity was more than a skill—it was a heartfelt gift she shared generously. She spent countless years sewing clothes for family, friends, and her church. Evelyn also found joy in crocheting and knitting, hobbies that brought together her nimble hands and loving heart. Over the years, she made baby blankets, sweaters, and hats for hundreds of newborns. Evelyn's knitted hats for premature babies in the hospital are remembered fondly by her family.

Her home was a sanctuary, filled with light, laughter, and generosity. Whether family, friend, or stranger, all were welcome—always offered food, a safe place, or a helping hand when in need. Evelyn was renowned for her hospitality, her door always open, and her table often surrounded by loved ones. She had a unique fondness for ironing and cherished the simple pleasure of slipping into bed with freshly laundered and ironed sheets, a testament to the care she infused into daily life. Cherished game nights of cards, Rummikub, and dominoes with family created beloved memories that endure.

Evelyn's quick mind and compassion enriched her relationships and her world. She was a great storyteller and an avid reader, keeping abreast of history, current events, and politics. Those who knew her often recall the touching and uplifting handwritten notes she sent, messages that offered encouragement, celebration, or simple connection. Her faith and commitment to serving God guided her always, shaping her interactions and inspiring those around her.

Among her proudest accomplishments was her steadfast devotion to her family. Evelyn never forgot a birthday, sending cards and thoughtful gifts across the years and generations. Just the day before her passing, she presented her two-year-old great-grandson Oliver with matching Hawaiian shirts for him and his father—a final, cherished memory that brought joy to those she loved most.

Evelyn is survived by her son, John Thomas Sarno, her daughter Lisa (Sarno) Shelton, her daughter-in-law, Pamela (Hawkins) Sarno, and her son-in-law, Thomas P. Shelton; her granddaughters; Jennifer (Sarno) Rutherford, Kristen (Sarno) Halpin and Alison Keller; her grandson, Ryan Keller; her great-granddaughters Lucy Rutherford, Olivia Rutherford, Sarah (Halpin) Hibbard, and Chole Halpin; her great-grandson Oliver Ace Keller; her nephew, Joseph Vescuso, and her niece Sandy Bauer. The tapestry of her family, woven with care and love, stands as a living tribute to her steadfast generosity and nurturing spirit.

She is reunited in peace with her dearly missed husband Modesto (Buddy) Sarno; her beloved sister, Grace Vescuso; her parents, George and Barbara Calabrese; her niece Dorothy Schiavone; and her treasured friends, Diana and Phil Mule.

Family and friends will gather to honor Evelyn’s remarkable life at a Memorial Gathering on Sunday, August 16, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM, with a Celebration of Life Memorial Service to follow at 3:00 PM. Services will be held at Dalbert, Woodruff & Isenogle Funeral Home, 2880 Boudinot Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45238.

If desired, memorial donations may be made to: Paddling For Cancer Awareness online by clicking HERE

or

Mexico Christian Children's Home P.O. Box 75234 Cole Springs, Colorado 80970, or by donating using Zelle account, MCCH agent Debbie Dunaway, Cell Phone # (719) 271-3312

Evelyn’s enduring legacy of hospitality, selfless love, and creativity will be cherished for generations. She leaves behind a community profoundly grateful for the many ways she made their world brighter, warmer, and ever more welcoming.