Alma Clair Petrini, formerly of Sharon, passed away of natural causes at 5:30 a.m. Wednesday, August 2, 2017, in Allegheny General Hospital, Pittsburgh, following an extended illness.  She was 64.

Alma was born December 5, 1952, in Sharon, a daughter of Mark and Clara (Sullivan) Petrini.  She attended the former St. Joseph Parochial Grade School, Sharon, and was a graduate of Kennedy Christian High School, Hermitage.  Alma earned her bachelor's degree in education from Edinboro (PA) University and was employed by the Bureau of Indian Affairs as a grade school teacher for twenty years in New Mexico where she loved teaching Navajo children.  She was a former member of St. Joseph Church, Sharon.

Alma enjoyed looking for hidden treasures at flea markets, swimming, making ceramics, collecting dolls and crocheting.  She crocheted a blanket for just about everyone she knew.  Alma also loved singing in various choruses throughout the years.

Surviving are three sisters, Mary Jane Petrini, Sharon; Joanne Petrini, Sharpsville; and Theresa Vernon and her husband David, also Sharon; a brother, James Petrini and his wife Rose, Chicago, IL; and nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.

Alma was preceded in death by her parents; and a brother John Mark Petrini.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to a local animal advocacy agency.

Calling hours will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Sunday, August 6, 2017 , in J. Bradley McGonigle Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 1090 E. State St., Sharon.

Mass of Christian burial will be 10 a.m. Monday, August 7, 2017 , in St. Joseph Church, Sharon, with the Rev. Thomas Whitman, pastor, as celebrant.

Interment: St. Rose Cemetery, Hermitage