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Francine A. Virgilio
Francine A. Virgilio
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Francine Virgilio Obituary
One Christmas, Francine Virgilio treated her nephews to a show with the Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall and dinner afterward at Mickey Mantle's. She even hired a limousine to take them around.
Though Ms. Virgilio, 48, never married or had children of her own, she was always in demand. She was the cool aunt, the one who knew how to have a good time without embarrassing them in front of their friends. "She was just so generous," said her sister- in-law, Susan Virgilio. "Not just with her money, but with her time."
An Aon executive, Ms. Virgilio started out as a secretary after high school and worked her way up. She was just as disciplined about her favorite team, the Yankees. She followed them through the bad years, and kept an autographed photo of Lou Piniella on her desk. Last year, she snagged a ticket to the Subway Series and had it framed for a place in her home on Staten Island.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
S Virgilio
June 8, 2025
Remembering a beautiful soul on her birthday this June 7. Fran would have been 72 this year. In 2025, she remains forever young and deeply loved.
Joe Miller
September 11, 2024
I took a picture of the Memorial during a visit to NYC a number of years ago. This year I decided to honor the names in the pic by "getting to know" one of brave souls each year so that they're no longer names.
Francine sounds like she was amazing and my kind of lady. Fun and generous and loyal to her team. I hope she's looking down and enjoying watching Judge and Soto play together. May God bless her family and especially those nephews. 23 years later but we will never forget. My thoughts are with you all and pray that you've found some semblance of peace.
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Dwight Robertson
September 11, 2017
You and your family remain in our prayers/
Kimberly
September 11, 2016
You are fondly remembered and your family is in my prayers.
Dwight Robertson
September 11, 2016
You and your family remain in our prayers.
Eileen Fitzgerald-Greco
June 7, 2016
Happy Birthday in heaven Francie. I shall always remember your friendship with me in the band, and the way you went crazy for the Beatles. My great Granddaughter shares your special birthday. You will always be missed and memories of you will always be cherished.
September 13, 2015
Always in our hearts Fran, We so miss you always.
Dwight Robertson
September 11, 2015
You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers today.
Melissa Lewkowicz
June 9, 2015
Happy Birthday.(June 7)
Susan Virgilio
June 8, 2015
Forever young. She would have been 62 this year.
Remembering her generous, kind soul on her birthday this June 7. She will never be forgotten.
Your Brassmen Brother Rich Cole
September 13, 2014
Your beautiful spirit lives on through our memories of you and we pray that your family is healing. We will always love and miss you.
Anne DiBella
September 12, 2014
Thinking of you & prayers for your family.
Kimberly Beute
September 11, 2014
Thinking of you and praying for all your loved ones.
Carlo Virgilio
September 11, 2014
I have meant to express my condolences to the family and friends of Francine for a number of years. From our Virgilio Family to hers. God bless you.
Memorial Park
Susan Virgilio
September 11, 2014
Dwight Robertson
September 10, 2014
Another year. Stopping by to remember. Hoping Francine lives on through her friends and family.
Melissa lewkowicz
June 11, 2014
I visited the 9/11 memorial on June 7th. My birthday. In the museum, I sat in the room that just shows names and biographies. I watched 4 names and hers was one. As I left the room, I had walked along the wall of photos, in only about 4 steps I had noticed her picture.and I thought what are the odds that when I stepped in that room, her info was there.and of all of those pictures, I immediately came across hers. But, as I was leaving the museum, I wanted to take one more photo of where the towers once stood, so I went to the one closest to me and when I did, within seconds i was right where her name is engraved. I feel maybe she led me there. Three times in total I ran across her. And I believe that she shares the same birthday as I. Of all those victims she kept appearing. And I tell you, I'm grateful for that experience!!! I said a prayer for her. And I am sorry for her loss
Duncan Miller
May 23, 2014
I visited the 9\11 memorial in 2012, Francine's name jumped out at me as my daughters name is Francine, it had such an effect on me standing there, looking at this name on the memorial so familiar to me and realising the total devastation for Francine's family. I wish I could have known her.
Anne
September 13, 2013
Hugs & love.
Kimberly
September 11, 2013
You and your family are in my prayers today and always.
Dwight
September 11, 2013
Another year of rememberance. My respects to your family.
meri puccio
October 19, 2012
we grew up together in brooklyn , i went to school with Francine's brother, Nunzio whom i haven't seen in many years.... when i asked him how Francine was I was shocked to hear that she perished on 9/11... such a sad, sad day .... I'm sorry that I didn't get to meet up with Francine... she seems to have been one very, very special human being.
Anne
September 12, 2012
Thinking of you and your family. You are remembered every day.
September 12, 2012
I think of you everyday,good times & bad.Till we meet again.
Dwight Robertson
September 11, 2012
Another year had passed...returning to this page to honor your loss. This year is different. My daughter was 3 on 9/11. This year she posted a Facebook status remembering the victims of 9/11 and she included your name without prompting. So although we never met in person, only business over the telephone, you are perpetuated to the next generation. May peace be with your family and friends.
September 10, 2012
You are not forgotten...
Arthur Ripley
June 17, 2012
Fran, I recently learned that you were among those who were taken from us on that dreadful day and it caused renewed pain and anguish. I think of the last time I saw you at the Brassmen Reunion and the great time we had. It was like being in our teens all over again. And like family we were all able to pick right up where we left off, laughing joking and enjoying each others company.I fondly remember how you Adrienne and Michelle would torment me whenever I rode with Tammy on the girls bus. I can hear the your voices and feel your hands pulling my hair asking, Arthur, Arthur, Arthur why you put your chair so far back.The thought of you warms my heart and puts a smile on my face.I thank God that He allowed me to know you.
Ernie Davenport
June 8, 2012
HAPPY belated BIRTHDAY Fran, I think about you often.
Adrienne (Franco) Johnson
June 8, 2012
This is the first time I am seeing this Guest Book,& I am so touched by it. What can I say Fran & I were so very close for so many years. We spent our pre-teens, to teenage years, to becomming young ladies together. Although we lost contact for some years, I am so glad I found Fran again before "The Worst Day" happened. Love you, Miss you Much My Dear Friend!
sharon velazquez
June 7, 2012
Happy Bday Sis brassmen we love and miss u very much.xoxoxoxoxo
Nunzio Mule
June 7, 2012
Happy Birthday
Marge Rivello-Diaz
June 7, 2012
Happy Birthday Fran. You are truly missed.
Patricia Karwoski
June 7, 2012
Happy Birthday in Heaven, Fran. You are dearly missed by your family and friends.
RIP my friend, <3
Sometimes you have to pick yourself up and carry on.
Rich Cole
June 7, 2012
Happy Birthday?!? To me it just seems ironic, but, then again, what do I say? I say: "I miss you! You were my sister in The Brassmen and I'll always remember you".
meri puccio
June 7, 2012
I remember Francine from my childhood, always a happy, vivacious person.... was just SO SO SAD to lose you...
June 7, 2012
Gus Rubel
Anne Hogan
June 7, 2012
Have a Happy Birthday in heaven
NUNZIO VIRGILIO
June 6, 2012
Tomorrow is another birthday you won't be around .I think & mourn everyday.Whenever something happens good to the boys I can't help to think how proud you would have been.You were always their biggest fan.
LOVE
NU NU
Jacqueline Williams
March 27, 2012
OMG... Fran and I were drum corps buddies in St. Rita's Brassmen.. had so so many good times... I just found out about her passing and it sincerely touched my heart and soul..... R.I.P. my dear friend.. A reunion is sure to come.....
Rich Cole
March 12, 2012
You, your brother and I were members of St. Rita's Brassmen Drum and Bugle Corp. Along with many others we became a family and I can't begin to describe the shock and hurt I felt when I heard your name spoken on the one year anniversary of the World Trade Center disaster. Not living there I was out of touch with the specifics of some current events, to say the least. I called my cousin, Sullivan (RIP) who still lived in NY and asked him did he hear what I've just heard?! It really hurt, you're my sister and I miss your sweet spirit.
March 11, 2012
I was a classmate of yours at St. Leonards. Even though our paths only crossed once after that, I still remember you. Be with God always my friend.
bobbym
Lynn Armstead
September 16, 2011
Francine, I spoke with you many, many times as I worked for the Hay Group in Philadelphia. AON was our insurer. I spoke with you only days before the attacks. I cannot tell you how many times I searched for your name after 9/11/01 - and I could never find you. I still hear your voice in my head to tihs day, and being a one-time New Yorker, I smiled at your very NY accent. My sincerest condolences to your family and may it help in some way to know that you have never been forgotten even by those who hardly knew you. You made a big impression on me. God Bless.
Denise Paradiso
September 12, 2011
Francine,
After all these years, yesterday was the first time I saw your name and picture as one of the people we lost that terrible day.
You and I worked together at Frank B. Hall so long ago. Even though I hadn't seen you in years; I was so saddend to hear and see your name.
God bless you and your family.
Denise Paradiso, NYC
Ed Eighmey
September 11, 2011
Francine, we attended St. Leonard's in Bushwick together. I last saw you in Giovanni's Atrium restaurant while having lunch in August 2001. I passed you by & did a double take as I recognized an "old" school mate from long ago. We exchanged business cards and went our separate ways. May God bless you and your family on this solemn anniversary.
Maria Bellino
September 11, 2011
My mom Mary Lou loved you
Dwight Robertson
September 11, 2011
Paying tribute to you on this day.
September 10, 2011
To Francine and Family
Our family in Chatsworth, California are praying for you.
The Austins
Anne DiBella
September 9, 2011
I will see you soon.
Ernie Davenport
September 8, 2011
Well Fran, it's been a decade. We all miss you down here, but I'm sure everyone with you there is enjoying everything about you. I'm looking forward to seeing you again one day.
Anne DiBella
December 22, 2010
Merry Christmas Fran. You are in my thoughts and prayers still.
Anne
Richie Cole
September 12, 2009
Fran,
You touched so many of us with your happy positive spirit and your sense of humor now we all carry you with us, in our memories and in our hearts. I know you've got the Angels laughing. Some might say:"Rest in Peace" but somehow to me this isn't quite right. Oh I know you're at peace, but, I don't think you're resting. If I remember you correctly, you're busy doing GOD'S work and preparing to welcome your loved ones.
Pietro VIRGILIO
September 12, 2009
Dall'Italia il nostro pensiero per Francine e per tutte le altre vittime della follia umana.
Vi siamo vicini con la preghiera e con il nostro sentimento.
Pietro VIRGILIO & famiglia
September 11, 2009
Fran, you are always with me and never forgotten...eric
Pat Beliveau
September 10, 2009
Another sad September 11th is upon us.
Eight years ago we lost you Fran and it still feels like yesterday. I know that you are watching over your nephews and my son Andre. You would be so proud of all of them, they are all fine young men. Rest in peace my dear "fancy friend" and always stay close. Miss and love you.
Your forever pal "Pat"
Doug Abraham
June 7, 2009
Happy Birthday!!!
Pat Beliveau
September 11, 2008
Another sad September 11th. You are missed so much Fran, by so many of us. Andre and I still talk about you with love and laughter. My fancy friend from NYC, rest in peace and may you continue to watch over all of us. Stay close my friend!
Love,
Pat
Susan Virgilio
September 11, 2008
The Virgilio family wishes to thank all those who have posted.
We are grateful for your continued thoughts and prayers. Fran was indeed a wonderful woman who is still greatly missed.
She lives on in the memories of those who knew and loved her.
eric
September 11, 2008
times goes by and smile and laughter are always with me
Ellen (Vitkavage) Bowden
September 6, 2008
I remember Fran from Anfuso-Sessa Marching Band and with the anniversary of that horrible day almost here I want to say that you and others (I lost a neice that day) will never be forgotten by those that were affected. I still cannot believe it happened. It's been a long time and I don't even remember if we were even friends or competitors but you are a hero in my eyes now. I wish you everlasting peace.
Edward Eighmey
September 5, 2008
I was an elementary school classmate of Francine's at St. Leonard's in Brooklyn. I had a chance meeting with her after many years in a restaurant just a few weeks before 9/11. While attending a business luncheon I happened to notice her at an adjacent table and I re-introduced myself. We talked only a few minutes and I went on my way. Looking back, I am glad that I did.
I worked in the Trade Ctr. for 15 yrs and lost a cousin that day who worked on the 100th flr. at an Aon competitor.
My sincerest regrets to the Virgilio family. May your memories of Francine keep you in God's care.
Doug Abraham
June 7, 2008
Happy Birthday!!!
Pat Beliveau
September 11, 2007
No one in this world can ever take your place Fran, you were one of a kind. The memory of your laughter and humor gets us through every day. You were truly a best friend and you are sadly missed.
Love,
Pat
Kimberly Beute (Koster)
September 11, 2007
You remain in my thoughts.
eric m
September 11, 2007
miss you much, as always
September 11, 2007
Dear family and friends of Francine:
I knew Fran only via an insurance claim that she assisted my firm (CB Richard Ellis) with years ago. Although our relationship was strictly "insurance" based you could easily tell you were dealing with a quality individual. I think of her often. You suffered a horrible loss that day and I just want you to know you are in our thoughts.
Warm regards,
Dwight Robertson
Erie, PA
Susan Virgilio
September 10, 2007
With each passing year, I grow to hate tomorrow more and more.
It doesn't get easier. The numbness wears off, and it gets worse.
ANNE DiBella
August 20, 2007
I went to Ground Zero 8/06/07 to pay my respects and say a prayer for you and all who lost their lives on that fateful day. I know you are with God. Rest in peace my friend. Respectfully, Anne
P Tabbernor
April 12, 2007
In remembrance....
eric
December 22, 2006
It may still be hard for us but you'll remember Fran's smile and laughter and perhaps that may bring some joy to us that were blessed by her friendship.
eric, PA
Anne DiBella
September 12, 2006
It's been 5 years since you went home to heaven and yet it seems like yesterday.
I know you are are peace but your family misses you so much. Till we meet again.
Blessing,
Pat Beliveau
September 11, 2006
Dear Fran,
Another sad Sept.11th spent grieving for so many that were loved and lost on that tragic day. I spent the morning glued to the TV in awe once again at how many lives were lost. I miss your smiling face and your friendship. You were one of a kind and will never be replaced in this world. Stay close my dear friend!
Love, Pat
Susan Virgilio
September 11, 2006
We miss you so...your sweet face, kind heart, lively spirit. Life is not and will never be the same.
We will always love you, Zizi.
eric
June 12, 2006
Fran:
We planted a tree this weekend and named it Fran, the kids all thought that was a neat idea, but they said they will call it their "buddy tree" for a nick name. Happy birthday, five days ago.
Miss you all year long.
eric
Pat Beliveau
June 7, 2006
Dear Fran,
Today is your birthday and I can only hope that you are at peace. We miss you everyday and continue your legacy of cheering on the Bronx Bombers. So much has changed and I still miss our nightly phone call.
Rest in peace my "fancy" friend.
Love,
Pat
Anne DIBELLA
April 12, 2006
It's been four and a half years since you were taken home. I know how much your family misses you. Rest in peace and know your life was well lived and loved.
You would be so proud of your nephews and your family.
In Jesus name I pray for you and all the people taken from us on that fateful day. We will never forget 9/11/2001.
I feel grateful and blessed to have known you.
Sincerely,
Anne
Magda Preisz
September 11, 2005
Another year went by, the memory is stll as fresh as the first day. Just heard the names read, Rest in peace.
Camille Grey
September 9, 2005
I can't believe that at this time 4 years ago, Michael started college and of course you were there for his birthday/going away party. He'll graduate this May and I know how proud you would be of him. There is not a day that goes by that I don't think about you and miss you. Rest in Peace, my dear friend.
Eric
June 15, 2005
Happy belated birthday,
ciao bella
Magda Preisz
September 10, 2004
Rest in Peace, miss you.
Susan Virgilio
September 9, 2004
Another September brings renewed grief, but this one is different. A beautiful memorial is being unveiled on Staten Island this Saturday to remember you and others from that borough who lost their lives that terrible day. Your pictures smile down on us from the walls of our house, and now your silhouette will look out over NY harbor toward all of the friends and loved ones you left behind.
We know you are watching over the nephews from heaven, Fran, and keeping them safe.
We miss you and will always love you.
eric
June 8, 2004
Dear Fran:
Happy Birthday cookie!
Thinking of you always and always you will be thought of, with laughter, sadness, warmth, and love. As you know my little guys are getting bigger and older everyday, they must keep you busy looking out for them, you’re the best and I miss you every day.
Ciao bella
Pat Beliveau
June 7, 2004
Happy Birthday my dear friend,
I can't tell you how many nights I still look to give you a call. Time will never heal the great loss we all felt on that horrible Sept. morning. I can only hope that you are rejoicing in heaven with your parents and the friends that are there with you. I miss you my "Fancy Friend" ! Love, Pat
eric
June 7, 2004
Dear Fran:
Happy Birthday from me, I think of you always and always will I remember you, you're great, thanks for watching over our three little boys, you keep them safe.
forever your freind...
eric
October 7, 2003
Ciao! Fran: Li manco come sempre, sarete felici di sapere che il Yankess sta andando umiliare ancora Boston Sox rosso
Forever eric
Chris Mills
September 11, 2003
Ms. Virgilio,
Although you may not have known me, I have heard much about you, through Joe, Kevin, Sal, and Paul. From what they speak of you, you were a great aunt.
And to the Virgilio Family, two years later I still pray, not only for Ms. Virgilio but for all that we lost on semptember 11, 2001. And I send you my condolences.
Leann Harwitz
September 11, 2003
I am so glad to finally find this article and picture of the friend I never got to meet. Francine and I were business associates via the phone while I handled insurance claims when I lived in Dallas. We had such wonderful chats and I was so excited to talk about meeting her on my next trip to New York. She was so proud of her years and accomplishments at Aon. I know how much she must be missed by her family and friends. Whenever I think of her, I send a prayer out for those who loved her. God Bless,
Leann Harwitz
Beloit, Wisconsin
Susan Virgilio
September 11, 2003
Two years later, September 11 shrouds the city in sadness. Others may forget. NY never will.
It still hurts.
And we still cry.
Ciao, Francesca.
Magda Preisz
September 4, 2003
It is 2 years now, still not a day goes by I don't think of you and John. Hope and pray, that you are at peace and forgive me for not being there to yell at you to get out.
Pat Beliveau
June 17, 2003
Dear Fran,
I sent you birthday wishes on June 7th, for some reason they never posted. I still can't believe that you are gone and miss you more and more as time goes by. Andre mentioned how he would always tease you about being the "oldest" at the dinner table. We talk about you often and miss all the fun times we had, you were always the life of the party. Thinking about that always puts a smile on my face. There is no taking your place in this world, and Andre and Emily are still cheering for your beloved Yankees. Happy Birthday my Dear Friend"
Love,
Your "Pal"
Pat
Camille Grey
June 16, 2003
Hello Big Sister:
Your birthday just passed again and I still can't believe you're not here with us. Linda and I went to the site and placed flowers there. We just moved back downtown and the bus stops in front of Century's. I miss you more than words can describe.
Camille
eric
June 9, 2003
Fran:
It’s two days past your Thirty-Twentieth birthday and I know you would tell me, in your own ‘delicate’ style, to be quiet, I’m smiling right now just writing this, smiling is something I have been able to do a little more when thinking of you. It rained on your birthday this year, a lot, I thought that was okay, let water fall from somewhere else, that for just a minute my tears faded away and were replaced by a smile when I thought of you. Since you would always ask me how Harlan was doing growing up and all, I appointed you as Guardian Angel for my other two boys, Angus (16 months) and Teagan (5/19/03), they’ll keep you busy. As always, I miss you very, very much.
Your forever friend,
eric
Susan Virgilio
November 18, 2002
To all who have posted memories of Fran and messages of comfort - thank you.
Fourteen months later, we are still grieving her loss. Fran's four nephews miss their "surrogate mother" terribly.
Your thoughts, prayers, and kind words have helped our family cope with the pain we still feel every day.
God bless you all.
melissa quarles
September 26, 2002
Fran, How could a friend of a friend touch my life so deeply? You had that magical effect on people, you were so real and able to connect with all who you met(well at least the ones you liked!) your courage and discipline as well as your love for life I carry with me every day...every time I put on pink lipstick(similar to the new shade you were wearing)I chuckle to myself. There is no taking your place and you have left such a void...such a large person in such a little body. You are in my prayers and thoughts always...continue to look after your dear friend who misses you so...help me to be able to help her through these dark days. God bless you and stay close. Melissa Q
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