Mrs. Rosalie C. (Ciccone) Francis

MARCY – Mrs. Rosalie C. (Ciccone) Francis, age 91, peacefully passed away on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, in the comfort and dignity of her home. When she went home to the Lord, she was reunited with her beloved Archie. Born in Utica on September 4, 1933, Rosalie was the daughter of the late Elmer V. and Damenica M. (Sardina) Ciccone. She was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School/Class of 1951. After graduation, she met Arthur F. “Archie” Francis at a local roller-skating rink. In the early days of their union, Archie was drafted into the United States Army. Rosalie, confident that he was the one for her, patiently awaited his return. The two were married on September 24, 1955, and were blessed with three children. Avid bowlers, their skills were evident on the lanes. Together, they also enjoyed time spent camping and traveling. The couple shared nearly 57 years together prior to Arthur’s passing on June 7, 2013. Rosalie began her career as a bookkeeper at Griffiss Air Force Base, and later at Morris Drapery Shop. She then accepted employment with Oneida National Bank. Through her many years of service there, she advanced to the title of loan officer, the position from which she ultimately retired. Rosalie took great pride in her roles as a loving daughter, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, and friend. Her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were her greatest joy. She was always willing to go the extra mile for those she loved, including serving as Den mother for her son, and Troup/Brownie Leader for her daughters as her children were involved in Cub Scouts and Girl Scouts. Quick-witted and spunky, she also enjoyed dancing. Her family will continue to share laughter, remembering her surprising dance moves! At one time, Rosalie was heavily involved in the Utica Moose Lodge in Marcy, where she helped coordinate fish fries and fashion shows. Every morning began with a cup of coffee and the newspaper crossword. A woman of many talents, she was an accomplished pianist, and even taught piano lessons. In spare time, she could be found crocheting, sewing, and cross-stitching. Rosalie loved hosting and preparing dinner for her family every holiday season. A die-hard Yankees fan, she made every game feel like the World Series at the bottom of the ninth. At night, you could find her relaxing watching Wheel of Fortune, Jeopardy, and we can’t forget her beloved Hallmark Channel! An incredibly devout Catholic, Rosalie attended Mass at St. Peter’s Church as long as she was able. When her physical presence was no longer possible, she ensured she watched Mass daily on television. She prayed the Rosary every day, as well as shared an individual prayer for her beloved relatives and friends. Rosalie is survived by her only son and daughter-in-law, Arthur “Art” Jr. and Patricia Francis; loving daughters and sons-in-law, Suzanne “Sue” and Stan Faubert, and Cheryl and Mike Thompson; and grandchildren, Kairat Francis; Michael Faubert, Samantha and Kevin Bristoll, Cheryl Faubert, Shaina and Cordell Stafford; Alyssa Thompson, and Caitlyn Thompson; and great-grandchildren, Vincent Faubert; and Isabell Stafford. She held close to her heart the memory of her late granddaughter, Christina Francis; and great-granddaughter, Rosalie Domenica Bristoll. She is further survived by her sister, Jennie DiFiore (the late Rosario DiFiore); many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins; special friend, Sherry Corabi ~ through thick and thin, for over 60 years, they enjoyed coffee and, at times, perhaps a bit too much anisette after Sherry did her hair; and her canine children who were with her in her final moments, Binky, and Smudge. She was additionally predeceased by her siblings and their spouses, Vincent and Beatrice Ciccone, and Sarah and Anthony Trunfino; father-in-law and mother-in-law John Sr. and Katherine (Cierlik) Francis; in-laws, Eleanor and Chester “Chet” Polak, Gloria and Roscoe Stocker, Irene and Frederick Bodurtha, Albert and Loretta Francis, John Jr. and Caroline Francis, and Edward and Patricia Francis; her canine companion, Honey; and many lifelong friends. The family wishes to extend their gratitude to Rosalie’s granddaughter, Cheryl, who moved into her home to help care for her and provide comfort, and her son-in-law, Stan, who took her to many doctor appointments. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, from 5:00-7:00 p.m., at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. For those unable to attend, you may be present virtually at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87251695304. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Rosalie’s Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life, which will commence on Thursday, April 3, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Peter’s Church, 422 Coventry Ave. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery.

Mrs. Rosalie C. (Ciccone) Francis

September 4, 1933 - March 26, 2025