It is with profound sorrow and the heaviest of hearts that we announce the unexpected passing of Sarah L. Longo, who died on Sunday, April 27, 2025, at the age of 36. Her death leaves behind a profound silence in the hearts of her family, friends, clients, and community members who knew and adored her. Sarah was more than just a name; she was a light in every room she entered. Her life, although too brief, was a living testament to selfless love, quiet resilience, and the kind of beauty that radiates from within. Her impact was vast—not because she sought to be in the spotlight, but because of how deeply and consistently she cared for others.
Sarah’s legacy of love, friendship, and compassion has inspired all who knew her. Her bright smile and caring nature will forever be treasured in our hearts, as we come together to support one another during this difficult time.
Sarah L. Longo was born on February 10, 1989, in Waterbury, Connecticut, to David Lockhart and Martha (Frohn) Scognamiglio. She was raised in a home filled with love, warmth, and strong values. Her stepfather, Vincent Scognamiglio, joined her life later, providing an additional foundation of support and care. As a child, Sarah was curious, kind, and deeply empathetic. Those who knew her in her earliest years remember a girl who was quick to smile, gentle with her words, and always aware of the feelings of those around her. These traits—emotional intelligence, attentiveness, and grace—became the cornerstones of the woman she would grow to be.
Sarah had a remarkable ability to connect with people, a gift that manifested early in life. She was a steady presence for her friends and family, the kind of person you could call at any hour and know she’d pick up. Her emotional warmth made her a natural nurturer and a trustworthy confidant to those around her. Sarah’s family always described her as their “guiding light.” Whether it was providing a helping hand during hard times or making people feel seen and heard, Sarah consistently went above and beyond.
Sarah’s life found a new chapter when she met Frank Longo, who would become not just her husband, but her partner in every sense of the word. Their love story was marked by mutual admiration, unwavering support, and an enduring friendship. It was a marriage built on laughter, shared dreams, and a deep sense of unity. Frank and Sarah were not only soulmates, but teammates. Together, they created a home filled with love and stability, where everyone—family, friends, and guests—felt welcome. The warmth they shared extended to all aspects of their life and was most evident in the way they raised their children. Sarah was the loving mother of their young son, Alexander Longo, and a devoted stepmother to Gianna and Mia Longo, whom she loved as her own. She navigated motherhood with tenderness, joy, and humility. She never saw her role as a burden—it was her greatest honor. Her parenting style was one of patience and affection, always putting her children’s emotional well-being above all else.
She celebrated every milestone—big or small—and was her children’s fiercest advocate. From bedtime stories and scraped knees to school projects and birthday parties, Sarah infused every moment of motherhood with boundless energy and a deep, unwavering love.
Sarah was a woman who cherished family, both immediate and extended. She maintained a close relationship with her parents David Lockhart and Martha Frohn, and her stepfather Vincent Scognamiglio, all of whom played crucial roles in her upbringing and ongoing support throughout her life. Her mother-in-law, Christine Longo, her brother-in-law Martin Longo, and her sister-in-law Jessica Longo, along with Jessica’s partner, Mark Wotajzek, were not just in-laws to her—they were true family. Sarah had a special way of making people feel like they belonged, a sentiment that extended across generations and family lines. She also remained closely connected to a wide network of aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended family, each of whom she held dear. Holiday dinners, birthday gatherings, and everyday moments were made richer by Sarah’s thoughtful presence. Her family was her world. And in return, she was the heart of theirs.
Outside of her family, Sarah cultivated friendships that were deeply meaningful. Her friends speak of her as someone who showed up—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. She remembered birthdays, offered support during hard times, and celebrated others’ successes with genuine joy. She was the kind of friend who would bring you coffee just because, leave handwritten notes, and call just to check in. Even in her busiest days, she never lost sight of the people in her life. Sarah’s friendships often spanned decades and were defined by loyalty, laughter, and honesty. Her friend group included childhood companions, fellow parents, clients-turned-friends, and professional peers. Her circle was large because her heart was.
Sarah’s gift for connection naturally extended into her career as a hair stylist. She pursued this path not only because of her talent, but because of her deep belief in the power of transformation. For Sarah, styling hair wasn’t just about aesthetics—it was about helping people see themselves the way she saw them: beautiful, worthy, and enough. Sarah worked tirelessly to perfect her craft, always staying current with techniques, trends, and products. Yet, it wasn’t the scissors or comb that made her special—it was the heart behind her work. Clients became regulars, and regulars became friends. Her salon chair was a safe haven, a place where people opened up, laughed, cried, and walked away feeling lighter.
Her commitment to making people feel beautiful—inside and out—earned her a loyal following. She built her professional life around empathy, service, and empowerment. Sarah was a beacon of support, particularly for women going through major life changes, including illness, pregnancy, and loss. In the days following her passing, dozens of tributes poured in from clients whose lives she touched—not with grand gestures, but with her consistent, nurturing presence.
What made Sarah truly exceptional was her kindness—a trait she practiced daily. Her acts of generosity were rarely announced or advertised. They were quiet but powerful. She would buy groceries for someone in need without telling a soul. She’d remember someone’s pet’s name or a grandparent’s illness and follow up weeks later. Sarah didn’t forget people’s stories—she carried them with her. Those closest to her knew they had someone they could rely on—without judgment, without hesitation, and without the need to ask twice. That rare emotional intelligence and willingness to be present created a ripple effect that extended far beyond her immediate circle.
Though Sarah’s time on Earth was tragically cut short, the impact she made is immeasurable. She leaves behind not just grieving loved ones but a stronger, kinder community. Her legacy is written in the lives she helped heal, the smiles she inspired, and the causes she championed. Amanda’s sudden death has led to an outpouring of support and a renewed focus on the values she held dear. Several local organizations are already working with the Collins family to establish an annual day of service in Amanda’s name, as well as a scholarship fund for students pursuing careers in social work or nonprofit leadership.
