With grace and a heart full of devotion, Maria Antonia Sportelli Hager has returned to the Lord. Born in Cassano delle Murge (Bari) and raised in Rome, Maria Antonia was a woman of profound intellect and deep faith.
A graduate of Law from the University of Rome, she found her life’s purpose in her husband, Hellmut Hager. After years of selfless care for her mother-in-law in Italy, she joined Hellmut at Penn State University, becoming his most valued collaborator in the study of Art History.
Her legacy lives on not only in the hearts of her family but also in the Hager Collection at Palazzo Sforza Cesarini in Genzano—a gift of beauty she and Hellmut shared with the world.
Mourned by her Loving Family
Her brother, Barbaro;
Her nephews and nieces, Alessandro, Mauro, Barbara, and Simone;
Her brother-in-law, Luigi;
Reunited in spirit with her parents, Pietro and Maddalena, and her sister, Edmea.
With Heartfelt Gratitude
The family offers their deepest thanks to the staff of House Harmony in State College for their tender care. We are eternally grateful to Father Matthew for a lifetime of friendship and spiritual support, and to Rossella, whose passionate friendship and presence provided strength during life’s most difficult moments.
“Lord, we ask You to welcome her into Your presence according to Your will. Judge her with Your infinite mercy and kindness, for she was truly and deeply loved here on Earth.”