Frances T. DeMarco

Frances Theresa DeMarco, 95, formerly of Garfield Street, Hazleton, passed away peacefully Saturday, New Year's Day, at the Laurels Senior Living Community, Hazle Twp., where she was a resident the past seven years.

Born in Harleigh on Aug. 15, 1926, she was the daughter of the late Paul and Victoria (Messay) Smith.

Prior to retiring, Frances was employed in the local garment industry, was a member of Most Precious Blood Church and the International Ladies' Garment Workers Union.

Preceding her in death, in addition to her parents, were her husband, Carlo, on July 26, 2008; brothers, John, Aloysius, Edward and Joseph; and sisters, Mary Greshko, Anna Watkins and Helen Zeller.

She was the last surviving member of her parents and siblings.

Surviving are her children, Ralph, Hazleton; Carol Harry and her husband, Edward, Hazleton; and Robert and his wife, Amy, White Haven. Also surviving are her two grandsons, Kevin and Brian Harry, Hazleton. Nieces and nephews also survive.

Our family would like to extend a genuine heartfelt thank you to Dr. Philip Benyo, Phil Benyo Jr., PA-C, to all the nurses, aides and staff, and also the Moisey family of the Laurels Senior Living Community, as well as that of Maylath Valley Health Systems Home and Hospice Care. The compassion and care that you showed our mother will never be forgotten, but even more importantly defines who you are as human beings.

In lieu of flowers, because Frances was an avid animal lover, donations can be sent to either the Hazleton Animal Shelter, P.O. Box 481, Hazleton, PA 18201, or the Hillside SPCA Animal Shelter, 51 SPCA Road, Pottsville, PA 17901.

Her funeral will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday with a Mass of Christian Burial at Most Precious Blood Church, Seybert and Fourth streets, Hazleton.

Relatives and friends may call from 9 to 10 a.m. Thursday at the church.

Interment will follow in Most Precious Blood Cemetery.

Fierro Funeral Service Inc., Hazleton, is in charge of arrangements.