Frances T. (Papantoniou) Pascarella

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother Frances T Pascarella whose kindness, generosity, and love touched the lives of everyone who knew her. She was born October 08,1937 at her childhood home in Edgeworth. She is survived by her beloved daughter Rebecca (Becky) and son in law Robert (Bob) who she considered a true son and her “Bobby”. Her nephews and nieces who she deeply loved, Keith Graham (Barb) Todd Graham, Lori Kramer (Matt) Melanie Magill (Sean) and their children and grandchildren. She is proceeded in death by her husband Richard Earl and son Richard Shawn, her beloved sister Isabelle (Herb), her parents Konstantino (Anna) Papantoniou. There are also many four-legged grand doggies that are waiting to greet her again.

A true trailblazer, she was the first woman in her family to earn a driver’s license, reflecting her independent spirit and determination. She also was the first to own a dishwasher and a washer and dryer. She often laughed at how silly it seems now.

After graduating from Sewickley High School, she worked successfully in business. Her determination and skill had her achieve being the first women in her department to be paid the same as her male colleagues.

After spending time at home to raise her children, she became a house manager for an estate in Sewickley Heights

She had a special gift for baking and found great joy in sharing her homemade treats with family, friends, and neighbors. Her Greek cookies and pierogies were frequently requested at parties and weddings. Her home was always open, especially during holidays and birthdays, where she welcomed everyone with warmth, laughter, and love. She had a remarkable way of making every guest feel comfortable, valued, and at home.

She had a decorator's talent, and her home reflected that. During each of the holidays she applied a creative touch without overdoing it.

Always a fitness buff she could have been seen back in the days working out with her VCR tapes. She combined that with her love of swimming and took many water aerobics classes, often leading the class and being asked to teach them. She made lifelong friends later in her “silver sneakers” class. She created a snow delay schedule for everyone when it was too inclement to come. She didn’t let a member’s birthday go by without a card signed by everyone or a special treat for a milestone birthday. After covid she joined the YMCA program with instructors and friends she truly enjoyed spending time with.

For years she and Richard belonged to a bowling league. When her husband became president for several years, they worked together organizing the teams, holiday events and banquets.  She would spend her own money on decorations and gifts for the end of the year events.

A devoted Pittsburgh Steelers fan, she looked forward to every football season and rarely missed a game. Monday Night Football was one of her favorite traditions, bringing family and friends together to cheer on her beloved Steelers. She celebrated every big play with excitement, wore her black and gold with pride, and never hesitated to share her spirited opinions on how the team could improve. Her passionate cheering, infectious enthusiasm, and unwavering loyalty made every game an event to remember. For those fortunate enough to watch alongside her, football was never just a game—it was a time filled with laughter, conversation, and cherished memories that will be treasured for years to come.

She had a deep love of travel and treasured the memories she made with her family along the way. Each fall, she looked forward to visiting Williamsburg, where she was delighted in exploring its rich history, discovering unique treasures, and bringing home thoughtful keepsakes to share with those she loved. She also enjoyed several memorable trips to Las Vegas, where she took in the spectacular shows, tried her luck at the gaming tables, and embraced every adventure with her enthusiasm signature.

At home, she found joy in life's simpler pleasures. She never missed her favorite PBS mysteries and was delighted to share her love of Broadway musicals and classic films with her children. Through these cherished traditions, she passed along not only her appreciation for timeless stories and unforgettable music but also countless moments of laughter, togetherness, and lasting memories that her family will forever hold close to their hearts.

Throughout her life, she built lasting friendships and was actively involved in many community and social activities. She enjoyed staying busy, meeting new people, and making meaningful connections wherever she went.

Above all, she made sure everyone around her knew they were loved. Whether through a warm meal, a listening ear, a kind word, or a simple act of generosity, she gave herself freely and wholeheartedly. Her love for her family and friends was unwavering, and her legacy of compassion, hospitality, and selflessness will continue to live in the hearts of those she leaves behind.

She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished.

A remembrance and small prayer service will be held at the Sewickley Cemetery Chapel on Saturday, August 8th at 11am followed by interment. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Frances T. (Papantoniou) Pascarella, please visit our floral store.