Gabriella Mariani Thurston peacefully passed away on July 11, 2024 in Sarasota, Florida, surrounded by her family and friends. Born in Savona, Italy, Gabriella traveled extensively throughout her life.
She married the love of her life, US Ambassador Raymond L. Thurston, and together they settled on Siesta Key.
With impeccable style and grace, Gabriella gave of herself to the Sarasota Opera, the Red Cross, Mothers Helping Mothers, the Gulf Coast Italian Cultural Society, her neighborhood association, and students of Italian cooking and language. For her volunteer service, in 2022 Gabriella was awarded the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award. An avid cook, gardener and artist, she touched the lives of many.
Gabriella is survived by her daughter Francesca, son-in-law Ryan, granddaughter Chiara and, in Italy, by siblings Franca and Giorgio, nieces Cristiana and Michela, and nephew Fabio. There will be a service and celebration of life at St. Michael the Archangel Church on Siesta Key later this summer.
Contributions can be made to the Red Cross Mothers Helping Mothers.