Frances Di Domenico Axelson

August 8, 1938 – June 5, 2025

Frances Rose Ann DiDomenico Axelson passed away peacefully on June 5, 2025, at the home of her daughter Maria and son-in-law , surrounded by family, her devoted caregivers Natasja and Leah, and a loving Siberian husky named Elvis, who stood guard loyally at her side. She took her last breath with peace and joy, knowing she was deeply loved. In a touching coincidence, Frances passed on the birthday of her granddaughter Victoria, who was present along with Rory, Zach,Danny, and Maria in her final moments — a sacred gathering filled with love and grace. She was 86.

Born in New York to Ignatius and Anne DiDomenico, Frances was their only child and grew up in a large, close-knit Sicilian family, whose warmth, faith, and traditions shaped her joyful and spirited upbringing. Known for her bubbly personality and bright smile, she later married her first boyfriend, Robert Gustav Axelson. Together they had six children: Regina, Rory, Lisa, Brian, Maria Elena, and Bernadette.

Frances earned her master’s degree in journalism from San Diego State University and worked as a paralegal for over 30 years. She lived in Lakeside, California, and was a devoted member of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church for more than 70 years. There, she served as a CCD teacher, room mother, and Eucharistic Minister, known for her hugs, generosity, and joyful spirit.

Frances deeply treasured every card, phone call, and visit from family and friends. It became part of her legacy to create handmade posters for special occasions — vibrant displays of love that celebrated those closest to her. Her daughter Lisa proudly carries on this beautiful tradition today.

Throughout her life, Frances inspired deep love and connection. In her final weeks, family traveled from different states and all over the country to be by her side — a reflection of the impact she had on so many. She cherished every moment, every voice, and every hand held.

She shared a meaningful bond with each of her children and poured her love and faith into them all. Her connection with her son Brian was especially deep — a bond marked by devotion, joy, and a closeness that transcends this lifetime.

Faith was the heart of Frances’s life. She often said she was “going to pray for everybody,” and truly meant it. She found joy spending time with her family and volunteering at Brian’s school, St. Madeleine Sophie Center. In her final days, her great-grandson Danny would pray with her each night, practicing Catholic prayers in her presence. Frances’s devotion to God inspired everyone around her, and it brought her deep peace to know she had helped others grow in their faith.

She was the proud grandmother of 16, great-grandmother of 33, and great-great-grandmother of 5. Her love extended to animals as well — from childhood pets like Sarge and Peggy to her final companion Clementine and many beloved grand-fur-babies.

As a teen, Frances studied ballet, took classes with Annette Funicello,(who appeared on the Mickey Mouse Club in the 1950s.) Her father was Tony Bennett’s stage manager, and she grew up alongside the singer. She graduated from Andrew Jackson High School in Ozone Park, Queens.

She shared a lifetime of laughs and adventures with her cousin Joey Sala — her childhood “partner in crime” — later joined by her husband Robert. Their wild and cherished stories became treasured memories passed down through generations. Frances was also a member of a bowling league at Parkway bowl for many years.

In her final months, Frances was lovingly cared for by her daughter Maria, her son-in-law Charlie, and her care team. Though she sometimes questioned whether she was truly accepted, she was lovingly reminded that she was — not just by her family, but by God, whose love she trusted with all her heart.

Frances will be remembered for her generous heart, vibrant spirit, unwavering faith, and the love she gave so freely. Her life continues to inspire all who were blessed to know her.

Service details will be shared with family and friends.