Rhonda J. Santilli, 48, of Schnecksville, died May, 18, 2020, in her home after a courageous battle with breast cancer.

She and her husband, Gabriel J. Santilli, celebrated 12 years of marriage on Aug. 11, 2019.

Born June 1, 1971, in Allentown, she was the daughter of the late Stanley W. and Dorothy S. (Kline) Smith.

A 1989 graduate of Parkland High School, she graduated from DeSales University in 1993.

She continued her education at St. Joseph’s University and received her Master’s degree in nurse anesthesia in 2000.

A certified registered nurse anesthetist through Anesthesia Specialists of Bethlehem, she worked at St. Luke’s Sacred Heart campus more than 20 years.

She was a member of Union United Church of Christ, Neffs.

A devoted mother of two young boys, she encouraged and supported them in all their sports and school activities.

She will be forever remembered as a selfless and compassionate person who changed the lives of many for the better.

In addition to her loving husband, she is survived by sons Jared V. and Max W. at home; brothers Kit L. Smith of Allentown, Mark C. Smith of Schnecksville, Roderick D. Smith (Victoria) of Allentown; sister Holly M. Olenwine (Terry) of Schnecksville; father and mother-in-law Joseph N. and Anita (Makovsky) Santilli of Salisbury; brother-in-law Joseph D. Santilli (Tara) of Palmer Township; nieces and nephews Cody, Katrina, Marissa, Anthony and Kellen; a large extended family; many friends and her beloved cat, Morris.

She predeceased by her brother, Collin C.

A memorial service will be announced at a later date. There will be no public calling hours.

Expressions of sympathy may be made at heintzelmancares.com

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Jared V. and Max W. Santilli Education Fund c/o the funeral home, P.O. Box 196, Schnecksville, PA 18078-0196.

Arrangements were made by Heintzelman Funeral Home Inc, Schnecksville.