Francie is our cousin and I have many fond memories of her dating back to the 50’s. My Grandmother used to take me to visit with my Aunt Catherine on Sundays. Sundays were our visiting day and we would get on the streetcar and visit with family. Aunt Catherine’s house in Oakland was always my favorite.
Often Francie was home and she was always great company and very sweet and kind. She came to all of our family events, christenings, graduations, birthday parties and weddings. I always received a Christmas Card from her with a personal note.
Over the past 10 years we reconnected and we would talk on the phone from time to time. I also visited with her, Lily and Joan with my sister Celeste. Prior to COVID we visited and I took my Daughter and Granddaughter. My Granddaughter loved her and sat on her lap as we enjoyed her garden after lunch.
Francie was a big fan of my Son’s music ability on the piano and on the organ. She encouraged him to continue to play.
Francie was a very loving, warm person and no matter when I saw her she always had a smile. Just incredible. I will miss her for sure. We spoke on her birthday and we were going to get together this summer again.
My brother Jim and his friend Al did a lot of work at Francie’s home and even installed a lift in her back porch making it easier for her to get from her garden which she loved to her home. They also installed sliding glass doors all around the left side so she could enjoy the flowers and birds from her kitchen table. He really was her go to person for anything that needed to be done.
My Dad just loved her and coincidentally her passing was on the 12th anniversary of his death, as my brother Michael reminded me the other evening. There is no doubt In my mind that God welcomed her into His Kingdom with open arms. She is now home with her family and friends who have gone before her.
Jim I am sure said “Oh Frances you finally found me.!” Enjoy life everlasting sweet cousin and say hello to everyone, until we meet again.
I love you. Denise Figlio.
