Frances C. Lewis

1942 - 2025

Frances C. (Furtado) Lewis, also well-known as "Mama Lewis", 82, a long-time resident of Plaistow, NH gained her wings on Wednesday, February 5, 2025 surrounded by her children, grandchildren, and Albert Gardella who provided exceptional care. She was the devoted wife of the late Gordon J. Lewis whom she shared 63 years of marriage with. She was born in Boston Massachusetts on March 16, 1942 and was the daughter of the late Frank and Concetta (Fucci) Furtado. Frances was raised in East Boston and was a graduate of East Boston High School. Frances was the sister to two younger brothers and predeceased by one sister. She proudly served her community as a den mother, a PTA member of the Pollard School and a CCD teacher at Holy Angels in Plaistow. She was also a member of the Knights of Columbus 6617 Ladies Auxiliary. Frances was a parishioner of St. Luke's and a member of the choir. Fran was employed for many years at the Pollard School in Plaistow as the food service manager and she retired from the Atkinson Academy from the same position. "Mama Lewis" was known in the community for her pizza, Timberlane delight dessert, and spaghetti dinners. Above all she loved cooking to celebrate her Portuguese and Italian heritage. You would often hear "Mangia, Mangia", her famous words at the dinner table. Frances was the mother of Gordon Lewis of Colorado, Cheryl Gardella and husband Frank Gardella of Newton, NH and adopted mother and grandmother to many others. She was the proudest Nona to "the apple of her eye" her granddaughter Angelica Lesiczka and her "grandson" Angelica's husband Stephen Lesiczka of Haverhill. She also leaves behind her grand-dog Buddy who was faithful to the end. Her family would like to extend their gratitude to Rockingham Hospice Nurse Debra and LNA Robbin for the wonderful care provided to Fran and her children. Family and friends are invited to attend calling hours on Monday February 17, 2025 from 4pm – 7pm at the Brookside Chapel & Funeral Home 116 Main St. Plaistow. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday February 18, 2025 at 10am at St. Luke the Evangelist Parish 8 Atkinson Depot Rd. Plaistow, NH. Interment will be held privately. To send a message of condolence to the family or to share a cherished memory of Frances, please visit: www.brooksidechapelfh.com.