Elizabeth (Beth, Bettina) Grace Tappero, 68, of Bristol, R.I. and Florence, Italy passed away in Florence on Oct. 10, 2020, after a courageous battle with cancer. She was the third child and only daughter of the late Jean M. and Charles J. Tappero.

Beth was a member of St. Michael’s Church, attended Bristol schools and graduated from BHS in 1970. After graduation she took a trip to Italy, where she found her second home and married Sandro Sanavio in 1979. During their 41 years of marriage, they enjoyed spending time in both Bristol and Florence.

During her summers in Rhode Island, Beth’s home was a hub of activity. Her doors were always open and she was a gracious hostess who enjoyed entertaining family, friends and neighbors. Her passion was gardening, and she often worked from dawn to dusk tending to her flowers and shrubs. 

Her generosity of time and spirit extended to her home in Italy. Bettina was a long-time member of St. James Episcopal Church, the “American Church” in Florence, where she was active in a variety of charitable projects.  She headed the food pantry for 25 years and hosted numerous events, including cooking for the annual Christmas Gala Dinner and various fundraisers.

She enjoyed knitting and became interested in the energy-based healing of Tong Ren, an Asian therapeutic practice. She was also an avid reader and earnestly followed local and national politics. When in Italy she followed the national news of both countries.

Beth is survived by her husband, Sandro Sanavio, and her three brothers, Charles J. Tappero III of Wyoming, R.I., Edward J. Tappero of Bristol and Robert E. Tappero (Kathy) of Warren, four nephews and a niece.

A memorial service will be announced at a later date.  Donations in Beth’s memory can be made to Paws Watch, Attention: Lori Sendroff, 49 Baggy Wrinkle Cove, Warren, R.I. 02885, or the Bristol Animal Shelter, 11 Broadcommon Rd., Unit #155, Bristol, RI 02809.