In a profound loss for the Lazio community and beyond, Suor Paola, a devoted supporter of the Lazio football club and a beloved figure on Italian television, has passed away at the age of 77. Known off-screen as Rita D’Auria, she became a household name through her appearances on the popular TV show "Quelli che il calcio," where her passion for the biancocelesti was evident. The announcement of her death was made by journalist Guido De Angelis during an event dedicated to the late Lazio player 'Long John' Chinaglia in Rome.
Suor Paola had been battling an illness for some time before her passing in her convent room at the Franciscan School Sisters of Christ the King in Rome. Her vocation, which she embraced on January 25, coincided with the feast day of Saint Paul, a significant date that marked her commitment to service and faith.
Born in Roccella Jonica, Reggio Calabria, Suor Paola moved to Rome at the age of twenty, where she dedicated her life not only to her religious calling but also to charitable work. She founded the ONLUS So.Spe (Solidarity and Hope) in 1998, an organization aimed at assisting single mothers, children, and victims of violence and poverty. Through her efforts, she created a family home that provided support and hope to many vulnerable individuals in the community.
Her contributions extended beyond charity; she was also a soccer coach for young children and actively volunteered at the Regina Coeli prison, where she worked with inmates and their families. Her dedication to helping others was widely recognized, and in 2021, she was awarded the title of Officer of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic, one of the highest honors in the country.
The Lazio football club expressed its condolences in a heartfelt statement, describing Suor Paola as a "fervent religious woman and proud ambassador of Lazio." The club's president Claudio Lotito and Dr. Cristina Mezzaroma acknowledged her significant impact on the community, stating, "Her family home provided solidarity and hope to many young people, prisoners, victims of poverty and violence, single mothers, and individuals affected by social issues of our time. Her smile will be missed, but the humanity of her collaborators will continue her legacy."
Messages of grief poured in from fans and fellow supporters, who remembered her not only for her unwavering loyalty to Lazio but also for her compassionate spirit. Vice Premier and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani reflected on her life, saying, "Suor Paola represented comfort for many in need. Today, the city of Rome loses a religious icon, a face of charity and hope. May she rest in peace."
Suor Paola's legacy is marked by her profound love for others, which she demonstrated through countless initiatives aimed at uplifting the less fortunate. She was known for organizing charity events, often involving Lazio players who would serve as waiters at fundraising dinners to support those in need. Her connection with the Lazio community was deep-rooted, and her influence extended to many players, including Giuseppe Signori and Mattia Zaccagni, with whom she maintained close relationships.
In her later years, Suor Paola continued to engage with the community, welcoming hundreds of individuals fleeing the conflict in Ukraine since February 2022. Her commitment to social justice and humanitarian work exemplified her belief in helping those who had lost hope.
As Lazio fans mourn the passing of Suor Paola, they remember her as more than just a supporter; she was a symbol of resilience and compassion. The club's tribute on social media encapsulated this sentiment: "Forever with us. Goodbye, Suor Paola." Her contributions to the community and her unwavering faith serve as a reminder of the impact one individual can have on the lives of many.
Suor Paola's journey from Roccella Jonica to becoming a cherished figure in the hearts of Lazio fans and the wider community is a testament to her dedication and spirit. Her life was a blend of faith, football, and philanthropy, making her an iconic presence in both the religious and sporting worlds. As the Lazio community reflects on her legacy, they celebrate the joy and hope she brought to countless lives, ensuring that her spirit will live on in the hearts of those she touched.
