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Rescue, California
Loving mom, sister, grandmother, and amazing person, Lucille, passed away peacefully at her home on March 7, 2018. During mom's final days, she was sustained by the affection of her children, grandchildren, brother, sisters, nieces, nephews, friends, and of course, Frank Sinatra singing to her. Born on December 15, 1939 in Malden, Massachusetts to Jack and Anna LaFrancesca, this sweet child grew up in a house full of love. In 1947, the LaFrancesca family moved out to California and settled in the Willow Glen neighborhood of San Jose. If that house on Laurie Ave could talk, it would speak of how a storybook family coexisted based on love, respect, and tradition. This close-knit group maintains a bond that remains unbroken. One only had to look around the room on Mom's last days to see the importance of family. After graduating from Willow Glen High School in 1957 she started working at Bank of America, fine-tuning her people skills to an art for over 30 years. It was at the Bank that she formed some lasting friendships with some special women. Including her Bestie - Donna, who has been the most amazing friend to Mom, up until her last day. Mom's knack for displaying respect and human kindness was something that made us all adore her. One to always remember special occasions, Nana Lucy produced smiles with her high-tech emoji and texting skills, along with thoughtful notes. Lucille married in 1965, had four children who she loved, adored, and dedicated her life to. Survived by Juliane Gilson (Jerry); Joe Caprice (Keri), Gina Belanger (Todd), and Deanna Martignetti. Mom had a unique and special bond with her children that she loved to talk about, occasionally sharing a funny story. Mom found the good in things, we loved her for that. Family was her foundation, quality time with each remained a cornerstone. It was genius how each of us kids shared in her priceless gift, we are so blessed to hold a treasure-chest of happy memories. She has 8 loving grandchildren - Ryan, Dalton, Kaitlyn and Brooklyn Belanger, Hunter, Hailey, Dylan Gilson and Maia Caprice. She developed a special bond with each and every one of them. Lucille's siblings include: Josephine Taormino (Phil), Marie Pellizzari (Bob), Sylvia Reif (Bob), Frances Lounsberry (Gary), Matt LaFrancesca (Rosemarie). The LaFrance family gatherings were some of her happiest times. They shared cleaning tips, new recipes, and laughter was always included. Her family, children, and grandchildren were her life. She loved cooking for them, laughing with them, and spending time with them. All brought so much joy to her life. Her annual trips to the beach with her family were some of her favorite times. These special moments have left a lasting impact on her grandchildren as they will always remember their Nana Lucy. Lucille has left her family and friends with a legacy of love, laughter and amazing recipes. Making Moms Thanksgiving stuffing, enjoying the home-made cannoli's, or simply relaxing on Christmas morning with Frank, Babs, and a box of See's Candy are all memories we will cherish always. Her big smile will forever be in our hearts and our minds, her principles will help to guide us, and the lessons learned from this sweet lady will forever shape the people she so positively influenced. Thank you Lucille LaFrancesca for enriching our lives. In lieu of flowers, a donation to American Cancer Society in her name is welcome www.americancancersociety.com
Arrangements by Green Valley Mortuary & Cemetery