CORAM, NY — The community of Coram and surrounding areas across New York are mourning the heartbreaking loss of Verbena “Tina” Louise Santo, a devoted animal and human advocate whose life was tragically cut short following a devastating accident last week. Tina passed away peacefully on Wednesday night, surrounded by loved ones, after sustaining critical injuries in an accident at a Trader Joe’s parking lot.
According to reports, Tina was struck by a vehicle and pinned between two cars before first responders used the jaws of life to free her. Despite the best efforts of medical personnel, she remained in critical condition on life support until her passing. Her death has left family, friends, and community members in shock and deep sorrow, as they remember a woman who dedicated her life to kindness, advocacy, and compassion.
Tina was widely known for her unwavering dedication to both people and animals. Her compassion knew no bounds—she was an advocate for those in need, a comforting presence to friends and strangers alike, and a tireless supporter of animal welfare. Those who knew her best say she had a rare gift for making others feel seen and valued, often going above and beyond to help anyone in need.
A proud New Yorker, Tina grew up in Albertson and graduated from Herricks High School before attending SUNY Buffalo. Professionally, she worked as a travel consultant at Blue Ribbon Travel in Stony Brook and previously at Personal Travel, earning a reputation for her professionalism, warmth, and meticulous care for clients. Colleagues and friends alike recall her passion for helping others experience the world, a reflection of her curious and compassionate nature.
Her love for animals was one of the defining aspects of her life. Tina cared deeply for her nine beloved cats, each one considered part of her family. In honor of her memory, loved ones are encouraging members of the community to adopt one of her cats, giving them “furrever” homes and continuing Tina’s lifelong mission of love and rescue.
Tina’s passing has left an unmistakable void across the Coram and Stony Brook communities. Yet, her legacy endures through every act of kindness she inspired and every life she touched. She taught others the value of empathy and the importance of speaking up for those who cannot speak for themselves.
As friends and family come together to mourn, they also celebrate a life that was brimming with compassion, courage, and love. Though her time was cut short, Tina Louise Santo’s impact will live on—in the lives she changed, the animals she saved, and the love she shared so freely.
Her memory will forever remind the community that one person’s heart truly can make the world a better place.