Francine Elizabeth Nicosia, age 73, passed away Peacefully on Monday, July 14, 2025, surrounded by the love and care of her family.

She was born to Michael and Dorothy Sorbello and raised on Prospect Street in Lodi. She worked as a NAD ASL interpreter for various companies before proudly graduating from William Paterson University with a teaching degree in Special Education. Francine was able to use her knowledge in ASL to support her students' learning.

She loved being a teacher and spent eleven years teaching at Passaic County Technical Institute and another 17 years teaching at several elementary schools in Wayne Township.

She met the love of her life when she stepped into Ron Nicosia's classroom as his support teacher. Ron and Francine were soulmates and married on December 19, 1976 and have never left each other's side in almost 49 years.

Francine was a small but mighty force, standing at 4'7". She made friends anywhere she went, and spent her days helping anyone she could. Everyone loved to gather around her table and enjoy her delicious dinners. She also enjoyed her yearly vacation to Las Vegas with her family.

She will be remembered for her compassionate, loving heart and for her life of service to others. She touched countless lives with her generous spirit. Her memory will forever live on through the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Francine was the beloved wife of Ronald Nicosia. She was the loving mother of Linda Nicosia; Michele Balletto and her husband Steve. Cherished grandmother of Nina and Eddie Balletto.

After a ten-year struggle with Alzheimer's disease, the family appreciates your thoughts and prayers during this time. A private funeral service to honor Francine's life will be held by the family.

In lieu of flowers, donations would be greatly appreciated to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, www.StJude.org , in Francine's honor.