Sara K. Monacelli, 46, passed away on Sunday, September 20, 2026, in Oswego, IL. She was born on August 4, 1980, in Chicago, IL, the daughter of Gerardo Monacelli and Meri G. Raimondi Monacelli.

Sara will be remembered for the simple joys that meant so much to her and for her courageous, fighting spirit. She loved to garden, to float in the swimming pool, and to enjoy a good cup of coffee. Growing up, she treasured time spent fishing with her dad, a memory that remained a meaningful part of her life. She shared a compassion for animals with her mother Meri. She took great pride in caring for her daughter, and some of her happiest moments were the ones spent with Shawn and Grace, especially watching horror movies all together. Halloween was her favorite holiday, a reflection of her fun spirit and the delight she found in traditions that brought people together. She also dearly loved her dog, Coco.

She is survived by her husband, Shawn Atwood; her daughter, Grace Atwood; her father, Gerardo “Gerry” Monacelli and stepmother, Karen Monacelli; her mother, Meri G. Monacelli; her sister, Flora (Nick Gregory) Monacelli; her grandmother, Ledoina Monacelli; her mother-in-law, Kathy Thomas; and her brother-in-law, Brian Atwood. She is preceded by her grandfather, Cesare Monacelli; and her father-in-law, Freddy Terry Atwood.

Those who knew Sara will remember her as a woman whose bravery, contagious smile, and sense of humor inspired everyone around her. Her presence will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the blessing of knowing her.

A visitation will be held on September 26, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. with a time of sharing to begin at 12:30 p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory – Mulford Chapel, 1860 S Mulford Rd, Rockford, Illinois 61108. To share memories and condolences online, please visit, www.fitzgeraldfh.com.