Natalie Claire Sapienza

She was loving, passionate, intelligent, kind, witty, loyal, athletic, and overall amazing. She was an innocent and pure soul who loved and was loved by her family and all animals. Her smile and deep dark eyes were infectious and calming. Once you met her, there was no forgetting her. She left a lasting positive impression on all she encountered. She could make anyone laugh and make them feel loved. She recognized when someone needed help and would not hesitate to offer. She accomplished a tremendous amount in her short fourteen years. She was planning and looking forward to the many milestones in life. She had just started high school, enjoyed soccer since she was four, and wanted to try to bring her soccer skills to the Apex High Football team next year. She had a gift and passion for animals, all animals were drawn to her, and she wanted to be a veterinarian and have her own animal rescue. This past summer, she was one of the youngest attendees of the NC State Veterinary Camp. She volunteered at Jackie’s Basic Training in the service animal classes, led several pet food and supply donations for Saving Grace Animals for Adoption securing nearly 1000 lbs. of food, plus beds, blankets, and toys, and spent time three summers assisting volunteers from Gumbo Limbo rescuing newly hatched sea turtles. She adopted one of the turtle rescues naming him Flip Squirmy Sapienza. She had multiple pets including her beloved gerbils Moose and Bear, her Leopard Gecko Lenny, and her rescued Anoles Lauren and Scott – all of whom she spoiled. She enjoyed building animal habitats and training animals. She found peace in the outdoors, camping on Jordan Lake and taking trips to the beach and mountains. She also loved the challenge of intricate Legos and puzzles.

She is survived by her mother, Lynette Sapienza; father, Richard Sapienza; brother, Richie Sapienza; grandparents, Steve and Priscilla Hart, Americo and Ellen Sapienza,and multiple aunts, uncles, and cousins. She is truly loved and will be missed more than any words can express.

A memorial gathering and eulogy will be shared on Friday, December 2, 2022 at 4:00 PM. Family will greet friends and guests following the service from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Apex Funeral Home.

Please consider making donations in her name to Saving Grace Animal Adoption 13400 Old Creedmoor Road, Wake Forest NC at https://savinggracenc.org/give/donate-now/. Please dedicate the gift in honor of Natalie Sapienza.

Fond memories and expressions of condolences can be shared online at apexfuneral.net for the Sapienza family.