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Celebrating the life of
Maria Mercedes Parodi Sortino
September 24, 1935 - March 08, 2025
Maria Mercedes Parodi Sortino, lovingly known as Méche, passed away peacefully on March 8, 2025, while taking one final ride through downtown Savannah, a city she adored, on a beautiful spring day with her caregiver Veronica. True to her spirit, she left this world on her own terms, following an over decade-long battle with Alzheimer’s disease.
Born on September 24, 1935, in Lima, Peru, Maria was the beloved daughter of the late Juan and Esperanza Parodi. In her early twenties, she left Peru to embark on a new life in the United States, following her brother to New York alongside her sister. She worked as an interpreter at Pan American airlines before becoming an executive secretary at Remington Rand, where she met the love of her life, Vincent Sortino. They shared a beautiful love story, married for 62 years.
Maria was a devoted mother to her daughter, Cindy Brown ("Cindita"), and cherished her son-in-law, Jeff, whom she affectionately called “Jeffy.” Her life was filled with love, laughter, and an unwavering commitment to family.
She is survived by her daughter Cindy, son-in-law Jeff, and niece Christine Buhler, as well as the extraordinary caregivers who became family: Veronica Dowell, Jackie Rhett, Destiny Outing, Ericka Simmons, and LaShawn Wingster.
Maria was preceded in death by her parents and her beloved siblings, Hope Parodi and John Parodi.
After adopting Cindy, Maria dedicated herself to her family, becoming a homemaker while also briefly working in real estate, selling buildings in New York City alongside her sister. She and Vince were inseparable, sharing a love for hosting parties, traveling the world, boating, enjoying the beach, and eating out and good stiff cocktails with their many dear friends.
Friends and family are welcome to attend her Celebration of Life that will be held 11:00am March 13, 2025, at the Catholic Cemetery, 1420 Wheaton St. Savannah, GA 31401
Donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at alz.org. or flowers may be sent to Fox & Weeks Funeral Home 4605 US-80, Savannah, GA 31410.
Maria’s warmth, elegance, and joy for life will be deeply missed in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.
Vince and Maria were among our closest friends for decades. The memories of our times together would fill many volumes. They were the most faithful of friends and our lives were blessed for having known them. Many blessings on Cindy and Jeff for having cared for them both in a caring and loving manner.
- Marcia Purcell, New York, NY
Remembering our decades-long wonderful friendship with this lovely lady.
- Eleanor and Robert Marazas, Belvidere, NJ
Our heartfelt condolences and prayers to the family. Mrs. Sortino was a delightful person and she will be missed.
- Lisa Sharon A. Harrison, Savannah , GA
a beautiful angel has returned home so sorry for your loss my dear cousin have peace knowing she is not alone , she is with her true love, her husband
- lynne cecchino , spring hill , florida
A candle has been lit!
may you find comfort during this difficult time candy and jeff , deepest sympathies
- cecchino family, spring hill , florida
Services under the direction of:
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Islands Chapel
912-898-0900
- Celebration of Life
- 11:00 a.m. on Thu, March 13, 2025
- Catholic Cemetery
-
1420 Wheaton St. (map)
Savannah GA 31401