Theodora Franciosa, 83 of Williamsville, NY died December 10, 2014 after a brief illness. "Dora" was the loving spouse of Gerardo Franciosa who predeceased her in May of this year. She was one of eight children of Vincenzo and Raphaella Pino and was born on March 20, 1931 in Niagara Falls, NY. In addition to being a long time resident of Niagara Falls, Dora resided at residences in Venice, Florida and Caneadea, NY.

Dora is survived by four sons, Gerry (fiancée Amanda), Cardigan, PEI, Canada; Anthony (Carol), Kenmore, NY; John, Spring, Texas and Michael (Molly), Rochester, NY as well as eighteen grandchildren: Katlyn, John, Alison, Tarryn, Lydia, Leo, Lincoln, Mary, Michael, Alex, Adam, Sarah, Hannah, Josh, Jonah, Shannon, Kelly, and Sean; brother James Pino of Milwaukee, WI and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

She was a graduate of Niagara Falls High School and attended Niagara County Community College with a focus on Psychology. Throughout her professional career, Dora held various positions including, Head of Education at the former St. Teresa Church in Niagara Falls, a Home School Partner for the Niagara Falls School District and Chemist at the former Kimberly Clark Paper Company. Her passions included cooking, an affinity for art, reading and most importantly, her family.

Visitation will be Monday December 15th from 8:45 AM – 10:45 AM at M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 MILITARY RD. NIAGARA FALLS, NY where prayers will be held at 10:45 AM followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:30 AM at Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph Parish at St. Joseph Church, 1413 Pine Ave. Niagara Falls, NY with Rev. Duane R. Klizek, officiating. Entombment in St. Joseph Cemetery, Niagara Falls, NY. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Arthritis Foundation (www.arthritis .org).