Julia J. DeFrancesco, 99, formerly of Niagara Falls, NY, passed away on September 21, 2022 at Terrace View Long Term Care in Buffalo, NY.  Born in Niagara Falls, NY, she was the daughter of the late Alfonso and Grace (DiPrima) Cotugno.

Julia graduated from Trott Vocational High School.  On September 28, 1946, she married Russell 'Johnny' W. DeFrancesco at St. Joseph's Church.  Mr. DeFrancesco predeceased her on June 5, 2001.  She was employed at the Niagara Falls Board of Education in maintenance and cleaning for 15 years.  Julia was an avid baker and cook, and enjoyed traveling the United States with her husband prior to his passing.  Everyone who met Julia loved her.  Above all, her life centered around her family and she cherished the time spent with her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Julia is survived by her children, Russell (Vicki) DeFrancesco, Alfred DeFrancesco, Marie (J. Michael House) Mauro-House, Annette (Bernard) DiCesare, and Janice Bigham; her grandchildren Elena DeFrancesco, Rusty DeFrancesco, Lisa (Mat) Polley, Denise (Robert) Herman, Marisa (Kortney Blecha) Mauro, Toni Marie (Steve) Zimmer, Anthony Mauro, Dominic (Vanessa) DiCesare, Alissa DiCesare, Miranda Bigham, and Benjamin Bigham; 10 great-grandchildren, as well as by several nieces and nephews.  In addition to her husband of 55 years, Julia was predeceased by her siblings, Teresa (late Christopher) Etiopio, and Angela (late Leo) Panattoni.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, September 24 from 10 – 12 PM at M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 MILITARY ROAD, NIAGARA FALLS, NY 14304, where funeral services will be held at 12 PM.  Entombment at St. Joseph Cemetery, Niagara Falls, NY.  In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, https://act.alz.org/ .  Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.