Helene Driscoll Franceschelli
Dec. 13, 1937 - Mar. 20, 2024
AUBURN - Helene Driscoll Franceschelli of Auburn, New York passed away on March 20, 2024, with her loving family by her side.
Helene Mary Ryan was born December 13, 1937, in Auburn, New York. She was the daughter of Thomas and Dorothy Ryan and a graduate of Holy Family School. After graduation, she was employed by New York Telephone Company until starting a family. In later years, she was employed by General Electric and 27 years with Sears. She married Richard Driscoll in 1958 and together they raised six children, until Dick's passing in 1984. Helene faced widowhood with courage and determination, leaving an indelible mark in her children's lives. On December 31, 1997, she found love again when she married Hank Franceschelli. Hank brought laughter and joy into her life. Together, they enjoyed retirement until Hank's passing in 2020.
Helene's love and resilience were unwavering. Whether it was dancing to the radio in the kitchen; we always teased Her about Her signature dance moves, attending joyous Driscoll family reunions, or sharing picnics at scenic spots. Helene made every moment memorable. She enjoyed arts and crafts, home decorating and playing her piano.
Helene is survived by her children: Melinda (Barry) Waters, Richard (Sue) Driscoll, Thomas (Pamela) Driscoll, Patrick (Kerry) Driscoll, Margaret Driscoll and Daniel Driscoll. Helene was also blessed with thirteen grandchildren: Todd Waters, Brett (Clyde) Ramsey, Chris (Sarah) Driscoll, Conor (Avery) Driscoll, Ryan (Brittany) Driscoll, Kaitlyn Driscoll, Lyndsey (Dan) Saxton, Alexa Driscoll, Kyle Driscoll, Meagan (Vamshi) Dasa, Sean Driscoll, Aiden Driscoll-Sadusky, Margaret Driscoll-Sadusky; six great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
Helene is predeceased by her sisters: Dorothy Thurston and Carol Ryan.
Arrangements will be made by Pettigrass Funeral Home. The services for Helene will be held privately as per her request. Contributions can be made in Helene's memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or the charity of her choice.
We are especially grateful to the Nursing Staff at Auburn Community Hospital for their compassionate care and tireless efforts to to keep Helene comfortable during her stay.
Sponsored by Pettigrass Funeral Home.
Sandy Thurston
March 31, 2024
Helene and I worked together at Sears for 10 years. Before I owned a car back in the late 80´s , Helene and her husband would give me a ride home when are schedules coincided. From time to time over the years, I would run into her and we always had such delightful conversations. She was a kind lady.
Lisa Vannais
March 27, 2024
Peggy and family,
I'm so sorry to hear about your mom. She was a wonderful person and a great neighbor. I pray you will find peace in your memories and each other. Lisa Vannais
Chris Hai
March 24, 2024
Deepest Condolences from the Hai family. We´ve known and been close to all the Driscoll family as neighbors and friends for 50! Years and will always remember your mom so warmly. She was a warm heart, a great example for the neighborhood and will be deeply missed by all whose lives she made better.
Marie Kuhlmann
March 24, 2024
Mindy sorry to hear if your Mother's passing Condolences to you snd your entire family
Sherry Gabak
March 24, 2024
Helene & I worked together at GE. Helene was a delightful lady. She was always so friendly.
My condolences to her family
Christine Clark
March 23, 2024
I am a neighbor who would like to say Helena was a wonderful person and a great neighbor. I have lived on this street for 42 years and would see her puttering around in her garden When driving buy she would stop to talk.. I can't say anything to ease your broken heart, but my condolences are with you.
Christine Clark
49 Wilbur Ave.
Edward Charles Sr.
March 23, 2024
My prayers and condolences are with the Driscoll family. Back in the day we would picnic with the Driscoll family,Charles family, Piffer family,Connor´s family whenever the weather was good. The rest of the year the fathers would hunt and fish together. We sure would have a lot of laughs and fun. I miss those good old days.
Edward Charles
March 23, 2024
Edward Charles Sr
Cheryl Bryant
March 23, 2024
My sincerest sympathy to Helene´s family. A very nice lady - we had some nice talks on the phone. I will miss her. So very sorry. Neighbor & friend across the street - Cheryl Bryant
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Auburn, NY

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