Frances Ann (Villella) Sheusi passed away peacefully on December 27, 2022 surrounded by her beloved family, at the age of 87.
Born in Buffalo, New York, Frances was the youngest of five children of Frank and Emelia ‘Mildred’ (DellaPenta) Villella.
Frances was a gifted artist and an accomplished potter who overcame a cerebral aneurysm at the age of 45 and went on to earn her Associate’s Degree with distinction in Fine Arts at NCCC. She was often found demonstrating and helping other pottery students at the college and volunteering for the very special arts program, helping disabled and disadvantaged youth to discover pottery as a creative outlet. Throughout her career, she was a regular exhibiter at the Lewiston Art Festival, winning ribbons and awards. She loved spending time in her home studio, creating beautiful pieces.
Frances also worked alongside her husband in their family’s business, Donna Felicia‘s Restaurant, for over 20 years. Frances was the leader for both of her daughters’ Girl Scout and Brownie troops. For over 12 years, she volunteered her time to help dozens of young girls learn life skills and value community service. Under her leadership, the troop traveled to many places, including Washington, D.C. and England.
Frances was an avid opera enthusiast and a longtime supporter of the Canadian Opera Company. She loved to travel and cherished her time with her family. Frances was married for 64 years to Samuel Joseph Sheusi, who predeceased her by five days. She is survived by her children, Johanna (Andrew) Moll, Felicia (Robert) Kostecky, Salvatore (Theresa) Sheusi, and her grandchildren, Anthony Blue and Abigail Sheusi, as well as many nieces and nephews. Frances was predeceased by her siblings, Vincent (Frances) Villella, Stella (Angelo) Longo, Dolores Giansiracusa Bonn, Evelyn (Bob) O’ Toole.
A visitation will be held on Friday, January 20 from 3-8 PM at M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 MILITARY ROAD, NIAGARA FALLS, NY 14304. A Mass of Christian Burial for Frances and her husband, Sam, will be celebrated on Saturday, January 21 at 11:30 AM at St. Peter’s Church, 620 Center Street, Lewiston, NY 14092, followed by interment of cremains at St. Joseph’s Cemetery, 3806 Pine Ave, Niagara Falls, NY 14301.
In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings may be made to the Upper Mountain Volunteer Fire Company, 839 Moyer Rd, Lewiston, NY 14092. Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.
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