SandyToscani

Sandra R. Toscani, lovingly known as Sandy to her family and friends, peacefully passed away on September 8, 2026, in the comfort of her home, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born on August 7, 1937, to the late Harry and Evelyn (nee: Mazer) Pouls, Sandy was a lifelong resident of South Philadelphia. For many years, she worked at local Pathmark supermarkets at the customer service desk, where her warm personality and friendly smile made her a favorite among customers and coworkers alike.

Long before settling into family life, however, Sandy enjoyed an exciting and glamorous life in the spotlight. A strikingly beautiful young woman, she worked as a showgirl, model, and entertainer during an unforgettable era of entertainment. Sandy was named Miss All American Girl in 1955 and Mrs. Universe in 1956, and performed at both the famed Latin Casino and Latin Quarter. Throughout those years, she crossed paths and worked with many well-known entertainers, including Sammy Davis Jr., members of the Rat Pack, and Ringo Starr, just to name a few. She also attended school with Chubby Checker. In 1957, and had the greatest 21st birthday party that was given by Jerry Lewis. Sandy was featured in a story in the premiere issue of Caberet Quinton Magazine, another special chapter in a life that once seemed destined for the stage.

Yet, for all the bright lights and excitement Sandy experienced, the greatest chapter of her life began when she met a waiter named Gualtiero at the age of 25. The two fell in love, married, and began building a life and family together. They eventually returned to the United States, where Sandy happily traded the spotlight for a quieter life centered around the people she loved most.

Her children fondly remember the countless simple and wonderful moments they shared together. Whether playing cards, enjoying games, laughing around the house, or simply spending time as a family, Sandy understood that life's greatest memories were often made in the ordinary moments spent with those you love.

She was a strong-willed and independent woman with a generous heart and a deep devotion to her family. Although Sandy once lived beneath the bright lights of the stage, she found her greatest joy and most cherished role at home as a loving wife, mother, Mom Mom, and great-grandmother. Her beauty extended far beyond her appearance and could be found in the love, strength, and loyalty she gave so freely to her family.

Sandy was the beloved wife of the late Gualtiero “Walter” Toscani. She was the loving mother of David Toscani, Alicia (Michael) Bright, and Jina (Charlie McLinden) Toscani, and mother-in-law of Maureen Toscani. She was the dearest Mom Mom of Ashley (Kevin) Kryszczak, Adam Toscani, Kristin Bright, Joshua Bright, and Skylar Toscani, and cherished great Mom Mom of Kevin Jr. and Addison Kryszczak.

An animal lover throughout her life, Sandy was also the devoted fur mom of Bon Bon, Bonnie, Taffi, Lolli, Tabbi, Pugsy, and Dolly.

She was the sister of the late Barry Pouls. Sandy will also be sadly missed by her many nieces, nephews, cousins, dear friends, and all those fortunate enough to have known and loved her.

Relatives and friends are invited to her visitation on Monday evening, September 14, 2026, beginning at 7:00 PM at the Murphy Ruffenach Brian W. Donnelly Funeral Home, 3rd & Wolf Streets. Her Funeral Home Religious Services will follow at 8:00 PM.

Burial will be held on Tuesday at 2:00 PM at Locustwood Cemetery, Cherry Hill, New Jersey.

In keeping with Sandy’s lifelong love of animals, donations in her memory may be made to PAWS, 2900 Grays Ferry Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19146.

From the glamour of the stage to the warmth of her South Philadelphia home, Sandy lived a beautiful and memorable life. The spotlight may have once followed her, but to her family, she was always the star.