Maria Matilda Sova, nee Mattanza, 88, of Collinsville, Ill, died Thursday, October 9, 2014.

Maria was born June 27, 1926 in Genova, Italy, the daughter of Cezare and Luigina, nee Boccardo, Mattanza.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her dear sister Teresita, Caserza of Genova, Italy.

Maria is survived by husband, Orville Sova; daughters, Kathy Sova of St. Charles, Mo., Juanita Sova of Granite City, Ill., Sheila Sova of Glen Carbon, Ill.; sons, Dennis (Dorene) Sova of Bailey, Col., Robin (Mary) Sova of Overland Park, Kan., Leslie Sova of Belleville, Ill., Marc (Lia) Sova of Edwardsville, Ill.; grandchildren, Dominic, Tyler, Alexandra, Spencer, and Adrian Sova; great-granddaughter, Zella Sova.

Maria grew up in Genova, Italy, crossing the Atlantic Ocean several times on several ships (including the Andrea Dorea) before settling down in this country with the love of her life, her husband Orville. She was a loving wife, mother, aunt, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend to many. She did a fantastic job raising her seven kids. Maria was a wonderful cook and loved spending Sundays and holidays cooking for the entire family and spending time with her loved ones. Her beautiful smile and loving ways will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Memorials may be made in the form of masses or to SS. Peter & Paul Catholic Church. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.herrfuneral.com or www.sunsethillcemetery.com.

Visitation: Friends may call 4 to 8 p.m. Sunday, October 12, 2014 at Sunset Hill Funeral Home, Glen Carbon, Ill.

Funeral: Funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, October 13, 2014 at the funeral home with Fr. John Beveridge officiating. Interment at Sunset Hill Memorial Estates, Glen Carbon, Ill.