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Frances Poalillo Obituary
With just an eighth-grade education, she was nevertheless a successful and highly respected businesswoman and the founder of Penn Hills Resort in Analomink, in 1944. Before that, she owned and operated a popular restaurant which featured entertainment in Carlstadt, N.J., known as the White House.
"Mrs. P" is credited with having the first restaurant in the Poconos to serve pizza. She was a true pioneer in the region's resort industry, having built one of the very first indoor pools, the first indoor ice skating rink, and the first individual guest villas in the area. After a devastating flood in 1955, she rebuilt her resort. She was an active member of the Pocono Mountains Vacation Bureau until her retirement, and the first woman on its advertising committee. In addition, she was also a founding member of the Pocono Honeymoon Resorts Association.
This remarkable woman led a full and active life, and she was an inspiration to all who knew her. She helped countless individuals throughout her life, and always encouraged others to continue on to receive a college education.
She was devoted to her family, friends, and employees. With all that she accomplished in her long lifetime, her greatest legacy is the fond memory of her love, help, and devotion. She will be deeply missed by all who loved her so very much.
She is survived by a son, Charles A. Poalillo and his wife, Melanie A. of Analomink; a daughter, Dolores L. Blockey and her husband, Brian of Chandler Ariz.; a sister, Josepa (Joyce) Massa of West Palm Beach; four grandsons: Ernest C. Camlet and his wife, Barbara Ann of Cresco, Mitch Asa Poalillo of Analomink, Charles R. Poalillo of Henryville, and Brian A. Blockey and his wife, Cheryl of Chandler Ariz.; a granddaughter, Lynn Camlet Tolson and her husband, Woody of Colorado Springs; and six great-grandchildren: Laura Ann Camlet, Anthony L. Poalillo, Samantha L. Poalillo, Nathan C. Blockey, Megan A. Blockey, and Melissa L. Blockey.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles A. Poalillo; four brothers: Michael Gagliano, Salvatore Gagliano, Inicencio (Jimmy) Gagliano, and Emanuel Gagliano; four sisters: Angelina Gagliano, Jennie Gagliano, Victoria Verde, and Catherine Melfi; a granddaughter, Deborah A. Poalillo; and a great-grandson, Jeffrey S. Camlet.
The family wishes to extend profound gratitude to the staff of VNA/Hospice of Monroe County for the extraordinary kindness, help, and compassion shown in the caring of their beloved mother, sister, and grandmother.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Saturday, March 7, at St. Matthew's Church, East Stroudsburg. Burial will be at the Gates of Heaven, Azalea Section, of Laurelwood Cemetery in Stroudsburg. A viewing will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. and from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, March 6, at William H. Clark Funeral Home, 1003 Main St., Stroudsburg.
In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy in Frances Poalillo's memory may be made to the American Cancer Society, Monroe Unit, RR 2 Box 2138, Stroudsburg PA 18360; or to VNA/Hospice of Monroe County, 502 Independence Road, East Stroudsburg PA 18301; or to St. Matthew's Parish, 200 Brodhead Ave, East Stroudsburg PA 18301.
&dateline;1003 Main St., Stroudsburg
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Memories and Condolences
for Frances Poalillo
Gloria Strunk Picca
March 23, 2009
I want to thank Mrs. P for giving me the confidence and teaching me the ins and outs of being a cocktail waitress at the Penn Hills Nightclub. I regret ever leaving that job. Thank you for all of your support while I worked there.
Gloria Strunk Picca (Stroudsburg)
Vicki, Brad and Nikole Thomas
March 14, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Robert & Nicole Redmann
March 9, 2009
We are very sorry for your loss. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with your entire family.
Pat and John Ryan
March 9, 2009
To the entire Poalillo family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. We owned a
home in Penn Estates for 17yrs. and had a chance to meet
Mrs. P. on several occasions. She was a very gracious lady!
Michael Conlan
March 9, 2009
To Poalillo and Blockey Families:
I knew Mrs. P fondly and as 'Grandma' when I worked at Penn Hills as a waiter in the mid to late-80's. She always had this incredible presence about her (we were all in awe of her actually) and made sure things ran smoothly in the kitchen. Class can sometimes be a word overused - but she had plenty of it. I know Brian and Dolores Blockey quite well as they are good friends of my parents (Ryan's in AZ). Just know I send my heartfelt sympathy and condolences to both families. She lived a long and wonderful life - respected by all. God Bless.
Brenda McIntyre
March 7, 2009
Ernie, Barbara, and Laurie and Poalillo family, We are sorry to hear of the loss of your mother
and grandmother and great
grandmother,we send our deepest
sincere sympathies.
She was a very sweet lady We too
worked at Penn Hills
Our Sincere sympathies
Brenda and Jim
McIntyre
The Porter Family Lori, Paul, Nick, Christian & Rosie
March 6, 2009
Our deepest sympathy to the entire Poalillo family we know how much Mrs. "P" meant to all of you...she had such spirit and loved life..may she be in your hearts always and forever...
Joseph, Cynthia, Daniel & Elena Ferda
March 6, 2009
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
Joe Scarsella
March 6, 2009
My deepest condolances to all of the Poallilo family. My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. Enough could not be said or understood, only by the family, to the testimony of a great, loving, matriarch "Mrs P" has been to her family and legacy. May your memories bring you comfort these days on.
Florence Drake
March 6, 2009
God Bless the Entire Poalillo Family. Our deepest sympathy. I was also an employee of Penn Hills and that is where I met my Husband of 23 years. What great memories we all have of working in the kitchen. Mrs. P. touched more lives than anyone could imagine.
Barbara Massa Ross
March 6, 2009
On behalf of the Massa family, please accept our deepest sympathy. May your fond memories comfort you during this sad time.
Karen Camlet
March 6, 2009
To: The Poalillo, Camlet & Blockey Families....
My thoughts and prayers are with you in this time of sorrow..You have so many memories you hold in your hearts.
May the Angels wrap their arms around all of you to comfort you in your sorrow.
Love,
Karen
Melissa Shanley Yetter
March 6, 2009
I am another one who worked at Penn Hills as a waitress and at a snack bar on the hill (I think?) Penn Hills was one of the only places around in those days. I was always very much in awe of Mrs. P. I was afraid of her until I knew her. What did I know? I was a high school kid. I thought it remarkable to see someone with that much fortitude and energy guiding a huge staff of people as she ran that kitchen. They all showed her respect. She was kind and mostly smiling but she made her expectations of her staff clear. I have always remembered her. We watched the progress of the resort as we traveled past it each weekend to ski at Timber Hill (Alpine MT.) I am good friends with her granddaughter Lynn and my sister was best friends with Debbie P.. Our whole family has been positively impacted by our contacts and friendship both past and present. It seems that your family has always been in our lives. Thank you Mrs. P. We loved you.
John Schimmel and Family
March 6, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of sorrow, may all the wonderful memories you have had over the years help you in this time of sorrow. I remember your mother and grandmother as someone who inspired and guided many and myself to succeed in life. Heaven has another Angel. God Bless.
brian blockey
March 5, 2009
dear mom youdolores and i will miss your strenghth but we will continue to depend on your guidence
FRANK AND LINDA MARGRETTA
March 5, 2009
THE POALILLO FAMILY,
WE JUST WANTED TO SEND OUR CONDOLENCES TO ALL OF YOUR FAMILY. MRS.P WILL BE GREATLY MISSED BY ALL WHO KNEW HER!! WE ARE HAPPY TO HAVE KNOWN HER FOR SUCH A LONG TIME!!
MARIE SECOLA-PENNA
March 5, 2009
AUNT FRAN I HAVE SUCH LOVNG MEMORIES OF YOU FROM THE TIME I
BABY SAT DELORES AND CHARLES ON FIRST ST, SO YOU COULD GO MAKE SAUCE AT THE WHITE HOUSE.
I REMEMBER YOU ALWAYS.
Diane (Gollinge Bach) Schafer
March 5, 2009
Wow, what a woman Mrs. P was, she was a wonderful person who never spoke unkindly of anyone. I went through some really hard times while I worked at Penn Hill, and she was always there to lift me up. I still have the baby blanket packed away that she made for my son, Ryan, it was a beautiful white afgan, that was a warm as any blanket I ever owned. She will live on in everyones memory that she touched over the years. Everyone has one more special angel watching over us. May all your wonderful memories, of your mom, grandma, great-grandma, sister, aunt and friend bring you peace through this difficult time. R.I.P., Mrs. P.
Brian A. Blockey
March 5, 2009
As a grandson of Frances I’d like to thank everyone for sharing their memories and condolences. Grandma’s work ethic, belief in higher education, and love for her family was a powerful influence in my life. It’s difficult to adequately express the love and admiration I have for her. She was always there for her family, and I’m sure she’s still watching over us. Thank you Grandma for everything. We love you and miss you.
Judith Ehrlich
March 5, 2009
I also worked at Penn Hills for several years. I remember Mrs. Poalillo fondly, specifically her radiant smile. She always treated everyone with respect. Condolences to her family.
Judith A. Ehrlich
Bethlehem
Ruth Randone
March 4, 2009
When my sister was a waitress at Penn Hills in '55 (year of the flood) I met Mrs. P. for the first time. Little did I know I'd come to regard her as family after I moved to the Poconos. What a special lady! I'll miss her. Fran, say hi to Jeff and Carmine for me.
Love, Aunt Ruth
Bob Bahel
March 4, 2009
My deepest sympathies go out to the entire Poalillo family. I knew Mrs P. for many years and never knew her to have an unkind word for anyone. Memories of her will live forever in our hearts and thoughts.
Scott Matthews
March 4, 2009
Our sincerest condolences to the Poalillo family for their tremendous loss. What an amazing life Mrs. Poalillo had, god bless her and her family.
The Matthews Family
laurie and troy dallmeyer and family
March 4, 2009
our deepest condolences to the families of mrs. poalillo. I've only been with the company for a few short years but still learned she was a beautiful lady. sorry to see you go. love from all of us.
Frances Poalillo with daughter Dolores 1954
March 4, 2009
Frances Poalillo 1938
Lynn Camlet-Tolson
March 4, 2009
I am the grand-daughter of Frances Poalillo. I'm glad I had precious time with her within the last year. She is very important to me and her family. Her daughter, Dolores Poalillo Blockey, is appreciative of your comments.
Rosemary Kress
March 4, 2009
What a wonderful and full life she lived. During high school from 1974-76 I was a waitress for her along with my three best friends. She was a tough lady and ran that dining room to perfection! She loved us girls so much and always made sure we had good work stations. I have learned from her and to this day it is still instilled in me. Looking at her beautiful picture and that big smile is just the way I remember her. She is in heaven now with my parents who adored her. After my father retired (Ray Kress) he was her bartender in the night club. He enjoyed that job right up until his stroke. She was truly an inspiration to everyone she touched. I will never forget her. My thoughts and prayers are with her entire family. She is at peace and in a good place!
[email protected]
Barb Landi
March 4, 2009
My deepest sympathies to the family. I, too, as so many in the area, worked at Penn Hills - and had the great honor of knowing Mrs. P. I even remember cleaning her house during my days off. She was a sweet lady - I will remember her fondly. She is now at peace at God's side.
Paula & Danielle Caravella
March 4, 2009
Our deepest sympathy to the family. We had the pleasure of knowing Mrs. P for the many years we worked at Penn Hills. We will surely miss this great woman.
Kathy Brush Mattern
March 4, 2009
My condolences to the Paolillo family on the passing of Mrs. P. She truly lived a good long life, and touched so many lives over the years. I also worked at Penn Hills for several years, and I remember chatting with Mrs. P in the gift shop each morning as she made her rounds. May God bless her and keep her forever and ever.
Karoline and Christopher
March 4, 2009
Dear Ernie, Barbara, Laurie and Family,
Our sincerest wishes of sympathy to all of you.
An incredible woman leaves a legacy of love, devotion and fond memories.
May God be with all of you.
Joanne (Mannhaupt) Eagleson
March 4, 2009
One of my first jobs was waitressing at Penn Hills Resort. Mrs. P. was very strict with her girls but I have always credited her with instilling in me my current work ethic. I do remember one Sunday morning when I had taken ill while serving breakfast that she called me into her office. I thought I was going to be reprimanded for not keeping up but instead she gave me a cup of tea and I had a lovely conversation with her. My thoughts and prayers go out to the Poalillo family during this difficult time.
DONNA DOLL
March 4, 2009
My condolences to the Poalillo, Camelot & Blocky families - I don't think there is anyone in the area that didn't work at Penn Hills one time or another, and I am one of them - She was the one who showed me the ropes on how to work, work hard and be good at it.- I thank you Mrs. P for that - you will be missed.
Donna C. Doll
Debbie Strunk
March 4, 2009
To the Poalillo family
I am so sorry to hear about Mrs. Poalillo. She really helped so many teens learn the work ethics that have gone on with us all of our lives. I worked as a "Chambermaid" back in the late 60's and early 70's which was my first "real" job. I lived in Analomink and didn't have transportation so that was the closest place to work not having a vehicle. Everyone will certainly miss her.
Carlo Scrofano
March 4, 2009
Our deepest condolences to the family.I had the great pleasure of knowing Mrs. Poalillo and will always remember her for her smile and kindness.May the Lord Bless her and grant her eternal peace.We know that she is with her loving husband.You will be missed by all that had the pleasure of knowing you.We all love you Mrs P.
Carlo Scrofano
March 4, 2009
Our deepest condolences to the family. I had the pleasure of knowing Mrs. Poalillo and will always remember her for her smile and kindness. May the Lord bless you as you enter eternal peace.You are now at peace with your loving husband. You will be missed by all that had the pleasure of knowing you.We love you Mrs P.
Dario R. Belardi
March 4, 2009
R.I.P.Frances
The Belardi family,Dario,Dario jr,Lisa Ambrose and my wife Barbara would like to express our sincere codolences to the Paolillo family.
We all have fond memories of Frances and cherish our 40 plus years of knowing and being a part of the family.
With loving thoughts
Dario Sr.
Wendy Bentzoni
March 4, 2009
My deepest condolences to the Poalillo, Camlet and Blockey families...I have so many fond memories of Mrs. P. It is hard to believe that she is gone, but her spirit will live on with all who knew her. She taught me what work ethic is and I have never forgotten that in the 17 years since I left Penn Hills.
What a beautiful bride and groom!
March 4, 2009
Grandma and Grandpa Poalillo on a date, on his motorcycle!
March 4, 2009
Our beautiful Grandma Poalillo at her 100th Birthday
Ernie, Barbara, and Laurie Camlet
March 4, 2009
Grandma, we miss you and your love and guidance. You helped so many, many people throughout your long life. Now God and Jesus will be there to help you. Say hello to Grandpa and Jeff for us. We love you!!!
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William H. Clark Funeral Home, Inc.1003 Main Street, Stroudsburg, PA 18360
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