Sallie Ann Walters Pantanella

On Monday, November 10, 2025, Sallie Ann Walters Pantanella, age 75, of South Park Township, PA, passed away with her children by her side while watching old home movies. Beloved wife of the late Donald D. Pantanella; loving mommy of Dustin, Megan, and Scott Pantanella, and Gemma (Dennis) Wodzinski; daughter of the late Sye John Walters, Jr. and Mildred (Woodson) Walters; daughter-in-law of the late Dino and Jean Pantanella; sister of Cindy Austin of Kannapolis, NC, and the late Larry "Bubba" Hunt; aunt and great-aunt of many nieces and nephews; dear life-long friend of Frances Shepherd of Salisbury, NC.

Sallie was born and raised in Salisbury, NC where she graduated from Boyden High School class of 1968. While pursuing a degree in history at East Carolina University, she realized she really wanted to work with animals. She transferred to Central Carolina Community College and earned an associate's degree in veterinary technology. Her love of animals eventually led to a career based in Pittsburgh, PA as a professional dog show handler for Saluki and Afghan Hound dog breeds.

It was in Pittsburgh where she met her husband, Donnie, and stopped showing dogs to raise their four children. She made sure to instill a love for animals in her children and welcomed many furry friends into their home over the years, especially cats. She leaves behind her faithful cat Oddym, whose soothing purrs would lull her to sleep at night. Her son Scott shared her passion for canines and adopted two Cane Corso dogs named Molly and Xena whom Sallie adored and they adored her in return.

As an educational advocate, she was a South Park School Board Member for twelve years and assisted in the design plans for the building of the South Park Elementary Center and South Park High School. She was also on the Steel Center Area Vocational Technical School Board at the same time.

After her husband died, she took his place as co-owner of the family business, B&P Locksmith, Inc., in Pleasant Hills, PA with her two sons. For over 20 years Sallie's southern accent greeted and assisted customers.

Sallie had many interests including history, politics, gemstones, and planting beautiful flowers. She had extensive knowledge in all categories and enjoyed sharing her expertise with others. She was also always up for a good road trip, whether it be a short or long drive.

As a final request, Sallie told her children to think of her every time they drink her favorite pop, Cheerwine. We will, Ma, we promise.

Friends received Friday, November 14th from 6-9 p.m. at the GRIFFITH FUNERAL HOME, INC., 5636 Brownsville Road, (at 6th St.) South Park Twp. (412) 655-4600. Funeral prayer Saturday, November 15th at 10 a.m. at the funeral home, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. in Saints Joachim and Anne Parish - St. Michael Church, 101 McLay Drive, Elizabeth, PA 15037 - Rev. Thomas J. Burke, Celebrant.

If desired, donations in Sallie's name may be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10306. Condolences may be offered for the family at www.GriffithFH.com