Born: - Deceased: September 14, 2020
Ana Maria “Anita” Sierra of Belleville, IL, died on Monday, September 14, 2020 at her home surrounded by her beloved family.
Anita came to St. Louis with her husband, Gregorio, from Havana, Cuba, in July of 1954. A new bride, she accompanied her husband as he started his residency at St. Mary’s Hospital in East St. Louis. Anita knew no one, had a limited grasp of English and was left alone for long stretches as her husband worked around the clock. Nonetheless, she persevered and as she supported her husband’s medical career she also achieved her dreams of having a large family and building a home in her new country.
Anita was smart, warmhearted and a wonderful storyteller. Like her husband, Gregorio, she lived her life with an open heart and a welcoming hand. She was a legendary cook and there was always room for one more at her table. She loved gardening, her dogs, reading, being with her friends and keeping a beautiful home. She believed in education and the power of prayer. Anita was her children and grandchildren’s fiercest ally and greatest champion; never too tired to hear about their latest triumphs or console them when needed.
She will be truly missed by her friends, many of whom were her family. She will be forever in the hearts of her beloved family who can’t imagine life without her; her daughters Ana Maria Sierra, Madelyn Sierra, Vivian Sierra, Alicia (Michael Cullipher) Sierra and Gregory (Sara) Sierra and her grandchildren, Madelyn, August and Alex Boyne, Leo, Joaquin and Isabel Sierra Salazar and Sofia, Chloe, Claudia and Gregory Sierra.
Memorials: In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital www.stjude.org/donate
Services: Due to Covid-19 a private funeral mass will be held on Saturday, September 19, 2020.
8 Comments
Mrs Sierra always welcomed the friends of her children, of which I am one, into her home. Her home was always filled with laughter and discussion and love. When I think of her I think of her kindness and her glowing smile… and of course, her delicious cooking!
I lived on Chamberlain Court and remember your Mother fondly. My sympathies to the family.
I really appreciate you sharing your memory of her.
Greg Sierra, son
I’m reliving all the memories I have of Anita over the years, especially the loving memories my daughter has relived with me, will linger in my heart forever. May Anita rest in peace.
Greg, my sympathy to you and your family on the passing of your mother. I pray for her soul, confident that she is with your dad in the joy of God’s love. I was blessed to work with you at the Fed, and my dad, who passed this February, was in the Serra Club with your father. Many blessings, Gene Knopik
I did not know till now Mr’s Sierra died. She will always hold a special place in my and my family’s heart. She welcomed us all into her home for holidays. Her family is the warmest and best. My sincere condolences.
Doreen thank you for the lovely sentiment…Mom always made room at the table
I hope your family is doing well
Aliciq
Although I didn’t have the pleasure of ever meeting Mrs. Sierra, I feel as if I know her through her daughter Madelyn. The stories I’ve heard about her make it clear that she was an amazing mother and a superlative person, and her influence and goodness will live on in her children.