Obituary of Frances Forlenza

Frances Forlenza was a loving mother, devoted wife, giving sister, proud grandmother and true friend.

With a bright smile and big heart, she always comforted others  -- never mentioning that she was a cancer survivor or Parkinson's sufferer. She bravely accepted her fate and never complained.

Raised by her grandparents in Newark, her cooking, strong family ties and sense of  humor showed her Sicilian roots. All were welcome to Christmas dinner and to her lasagna, chicken parmigian and struffoli. And if someone needed support she was always there with kind words and a warm hug.

We were blessed to be touched by my mother's love: Love for her family, love for her friends and a deep love for God which gave her the strength to persevere and inspire others. Her strong faith, compassion and selflessness made her a saintlike presence in the lives of all who knew her.

She was a kind, beautiful woman. We will all miss her, but her love and spirit will always be with us. So when we are sad or troubled, we can say a little prayer to Saint Frances of Newark and she will be with us.