The community of Dighton, Massachusetts, is mourning the heartbreaking and unexpected loss of Savannah Ryan Salemme, who tragically passed away in a car accident on September 19, 2025, at just 18 years old. Savannah’s life, though far too brief, was marked by love, joy, and a fearless pursuit of adventure. She touched countless lives with her kindness, warmth, and infectious zest for life.
Born on May 22, 2007, in Weymouth, Savannah grew up in Randolph and Stoughton before moving to Dighton. She graduated this past spring with the Bristol-Plymouth Regional Technical School Class of 2025, where she excelled in HVAC. With pride and determination, she had already begun to pursue a career in the field, showing maturity and focus well beyond her years. Her teachers and classmates admired her dedication and her ability to bring a spark of positivity to those around her.
Savannah had an adventurous soul and a wide array of interests that reflected her lively personality. A true music lover, her playlists spanned every genre, always tailored to her energy and mood. She loved to travel and explore, never hesitating to try something new or navigate her way through unfamiliar places. Friends and family marveled at her impeccable sense of direction, a gift that matched her eagerness to discover the world.
One of Savannah’s greatest joys was the time she spent with her boyfriend, Shawn Ponte, with whom she shared countless adventures. Together, they found happiness in working on cars and trucks, relaxing at the beach, and learning new things side by side. Savannah was also a proud member of 603 Diesel, a truck meet club where she embraced both the thrill of the quarter mile and the camaraderie of fellow enthusiasts. Her love for cars was a defining part of her identity, giving her confidence and joy.
Savannah’s nurturing heart was one of her most beautiful qualities. She cared deeply for her younger brother, Leo, and her cousin Aubrey, helping to look after them with grace, devotion, and endless love. She cherished simple family moments, whether standing with her parents in the kitchen, gathering for dinners with extended family, or cheering loudly at meets. Her smile could light up any room, and her kindness made everyone feel valued.
She leaves behind a family who loved her beyond measure: her “Mum” Arianna (Ellis) and “Daddo” Matthew Salemmeof Dighton; her siblings Leo Salemme and Charolette Fornaciari; her father Michael Fornaciari of Braintree; her devoted grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended family; and her beloved boyfriend, Shawn Ponte of Raynham, along with his loving parents and siblings. Savannah’s memory will also live on in the hearts of her many friends, classmates, and the larger community who were blessed to know her.
A memorial visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, from 4:00 – 7:00 PM at Cartwright Funeral Home, 419 N. Main St., Randolph. Relatives and friends are warmly invited to attend and celebrate the life of a young woman whose light continues to shine brightly.
In her memory, Savannah’s family encourages all to live with the same joy and curiosity she carried—listen to a favorite song, take a new adventure, or lend a hand to someone in need, just as she always did.
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