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BOARDMAN -- Frances Christine Yonnotti Cappelli, of Boardman, passed away peacefully Friday, Sept. 18, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.
Frances was born Sept. 29, 1932, in Youngstown, the daughter of the late Michael and Florence Yonnotti. She was the youngest of six siblings that stayed close and "in each other's lives."
She graduated from South High School in 1950 and also worked at their family restaurant, the Hillman Grill. She met Paul G. Cappelli, who was visiting from Italy, at her sister's home, which was next door to the home of his uncle. It was love at first sight, and Frances and Paul married in Montreal, Canada, where his family had migrated. They returned to Youngstown, and Frances helped Paul run his master tailor business at her father's storefront on Hillman Street, which was later located in the Uptown and finally, in Boardman. Their partnership was powerful and they raised their children with love while teaching the importance of hard work. In their spare time, they enjoyed ballroom dancing, earning many awards.
Frances loved to exercise, being a friend to the ladies of the Easter Seal Society and Mended Hearts Association. She was an innovative, gourmet and traditional cook/baker who showed her love through cooking. She loved Sunday family dinners, holidays and entertaining with elaborate cocktail parties.
Frances lived her life based on strong faith and with grace, which was blessed on everyone who knew her. She was a loyal and active parishioner of St. Charles Parish.
She leaves her daughter Teresa, whom she spent most days with, and her son-in-law, Louis DiPaolo, whom she loved from the minute she met him. She also leaves her grandsons, Andrew (Amanda) of Canfield, Stephen of Cuyahoga Falls and Michael of Pittsburgh, Pa., that she adored and brought her great pride; and her great-granddaughter, Giavanna, who gave her immense joy; as well as her sister-in-law, Franca Franchi of Montreal, Canada.
She also leaves her nieces and nephews, whom she greatly loved; they left an impact on each other's lives, earning her the nicknames "Honey" and "Aunt Honey."
In addition to her parents and her husband, she was preceded in death by her son, Paul J.; an infant son, David; her siblings; her niece; her cousins; and many dear friends.
The family wishes to thank Ed and Diane Reese, Dr. Demidovich and the entire staff of Briarfield Place, where Frances resided for the past four years; and the too many wonderful employees that impacted her care, spirit and life; she had her favorites; you know who you are!
A Mass of Christian Burial will be 11 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 24, 2006, at St. Catherine of Siena Parish-St. Charles Church, 7345 Westview Drive, Boardman, OH 44512. Friends may call 9 to 10:30 a.m. Thursday morning, prior to the Mass, at the Higgins-Reardon Funeral Home, Boardman-Canfield Chapel.
Memorial contributions may be made in her memory to Patriot Hospice and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
Professional arrangements were entrusted to Higgins-Reardon Funeral Homes, Boardman-Canfield Chapel.
Family and friends may view obituaries and send condolences, visit www.higgins-reardon.com.
(special notice)