Mary Carmella Allen

Mary C. (Sauta) Allen, 89, of Marlborough, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by the love of her family on May 19, 2026.

Born on September 12, 1936, Mary was the daughter of the late Mary and Vincenzo J. Sauta. She grew up rooted in the Sauta family farm in Hudson, where some of her earliest and fondest memories were shaped by the corn fields, animals, and the constant presence of family and life all around her. She often reminisced about the large Sunday pasta dinners on the farm, where sauce simmered for hours, fresh parmesan covered the table, and generations of family crowded together sharing food, stories, laughter, and time with one another. Surrounded by the warmth of family, homemade meals, and the rhythms of farm life, those memories remained close to her heart throughout her life.

She will be deeply missed by her loving children, Kenneth Allen, Kim Pugh and her husband Gary Pugh, and Keith Allen and his wife Karen; along with her cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whom she adored and loved to spoil endlessly. She is also survived by her brother Charles (“Charlie”) Sauta and his wife Jean, her sister Connie Coffin, sisters-in-law Lillian Sauta and Betty Sauta, and brother-in-law Dick Henderson. Mary was predeceased by her siblings John Sauta, James Sauta, Theresa Henderson, and Richard (“Richie”) Sauta; her sister-in-law Elaine Sauta; and many beloved family members who were deeply important to her throughout her life.

Mary was spirited, independent, thoughtful, and deeply memorable to those who knew her. She was known for being ahead of her time, steadfast in her beliefs, and unafraid to live life on her own terms. She loved meaningful conversations, especially surrounding spirituality and meditation, and had a natural curiosity about life and the world around her.

Music was always part of Mary’s life. She loved classical music and was equally known for turning up Tom Jones, whose songs never failed to make her smile. Some of her happiest moments were spent vacationing on Cape Cod with family. She loved collecting shells and sea glass along the beach, often filling glass jars throughout her home with small treasures that reminded her of the ocean and peaceful moments spent by the water. She also had a lifelong love for dogs, especially her beloved Chloe, who remained faithfully by her side.

To many, Mary was the “cool mom” — warm, welcoming, adventurous, and full of personality. Her family and friends will remember her for her strength, compassion, individuality, and the deep love she gave so freely to those around her.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations in Mary’s memory to Sweet Paws Rescue, honoring the lifelong comfort, companionship, and joy that dogs brought to her life; https://www.sweetpawsrescue.org/donate.