Mattydale (WSYR-TV) -- Calling hours were held Tuesday for Westhill High School student Anna Pullano who was killed in a crash this past weekend.
Pullano’s family says their thoughts and prayers are with all those who knew Anna and especially with the Centro bus driver involved in the accident.
Anna Pullano's photography site features portraits of her friends and seven siblings – artwork which was often inspired by her little brother Michael who died less than five years ago.
“It's hard to believe that they're experiencing this again. It's amazing that they're almost encouraging and giving other people strength as they're going through the line. They're amazing people, beautiful people,” said family friend Bob Vinciguerra.
More than 1,500 people paid their respects to the family at calling hours on Tuesday. Anna’s photography was on display at St. Margaret’s Church in Mattydale, many of those who entered the church saw photos of themselves, taken by Anna. For many of her friends, those photos will be treasured, along with their memories of their time together.
“She was always fun, always there if I needed to talk to someone, I could talk to her,” said Anna’s friend Emily Burke.
Another friend, Kristine Beckhusen said, “She always knew how to make people laugh and smile and just, she never really seemed too sad about anything.”
“We're going to miss her, we're grieving because we're going to miss her, but she'll be in a better place. They're an incredible family that's been through a lot,” said family friend Bob Vinciguerra.
Anna’s funeral will be held Wednesday at St. Margaret’s Church in Mattydale at 11 a.m. She will be buried in Woodlawn Cemetery.
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Anna’s parents offered this statement in regard to their daughter’s passing:
“We are all deeply saddened by the untimely, tragic death of our daughter Anna. She was a beautiful, intelligent, gifted young lady with a bright future ahead of her. She will be missed by all those who’s life she touched. The void her death leaves is enormous.
“Many people recall the loss of our four year old son Michael to cancer less than five years ago. His death had a profound impact on Anna, and it was reflected in much of her art work.
“We are grateful for the tremendous support and compassion the entire community has shown us during this most difficult time. It is this expression of love and our faith in God, with the promise of eternal life that give us the strength to endure such extraordinary circumstances. We are very blessed to have had both Anna and Michael as part of our family.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with all those who knew her, and especially with Richard Dowell, the Centro bus driver involved in the accident.
In honor of Anna and her passion for art and photography, we ask that donations be directed to the Westhill High School Art and Photography Department.”
