Franca Maria Ciucci (Nonna) was born in Lucca, Italy on January 13, 1927. She passed away on November 10, 2012, following several days surrounded by her daughter, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Although, the term is Italian for grandmother, all of her grandchildren’s friends and other adults, lovingly referred to her simply as “Nonna”.
She was the consummate Italian mother and homemaker, an excellent cook and enjoyed cooking for her family more than anything. She also loved keeping up her flower and vegetable gardens. She loved using all her fresh herbs and vegetables in anything she made.
She lived in her home in East Sac since 1955 and was a long time member of St. Mary’s Church. In 2010, she moved to Eskaton Lodge Gold River, where she lived until her passing, honing her bingo and crafting skills, until the very end.
Franca was predeceased by the love of her life, her loving husband of nearly 50 years, Norberto, in 1994, and tragically lost her beloved daughter, Albie Carson, to breast cancer in 2002; as well as a brother and sister. She is survived by 2 brothers and sisters in law, and 2 sisters who are also still living.
Her daughter, Joann Ryan, remains; as well as her beloved grandchildren, Mark Carson; Will Sayre (Stacey); Matt Carson (Amy); Drew Sayre; and Molly O’Connor (David). She was most proud of her 10 amazing great-grandchildren ranging in ages from 5 months to 15 years. She is also survived by several wonderful nieces, nephews and grand-nieces and nephews, here, and in Italy.
The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the Mercy Hospice team who so wonderfully cared for Nonna over the last 6 weeks, and a very sincere thank you to the entire staff at Eskaton Lodge Gold River, who made Nonna feel so loved and cared for. Because of the incredible staff, it was “home” to her, not a facility. The family will never forget their many kindnesses shown to them, especially in her last days and hours.
A Rosary/Memorial will be held on Sunday, November 18, 2012, at 3:00 pm at Nicoletti, Culjis & Herberger Funeral Home, 5401 Folsom Blvd. Funeral Mass will be celebrated Monday, November 19, 2012 at 10:00 am, St. Mary’s Church, 1333 58th St., with interment to follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that any donations be sent to the foundation created in her daughter’s memory, The Albie Aware Breast Cancer Foundation, 3323 – Watt Ave. #258, Sacramento, CA 95821, to help continue the wonderful work they are doing in her name.
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