Francine McCauley Barone

Francine McCauley Barone of Wyckoff, NJ, formerly of Franklin Lakes and Ridgewood, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 22, 2023 at the age of 92 surrounded by her loving family.
Francine was born on January 2, 1931 in Hastings on Hudson, NY. She attended Fordham University before working at Best Foods. It was there she met her beloved husband Don of 62 years. They lived in New York City until 1964 and then moved their family to Ridgewood where they resided for 54 years. She eventually returned to the workforce as an administrative assistant at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Rectory until her retirement. Throughout her career at Mount Carmel, she would provide a warm smile and comforting voice to all those who entered the parish office. Francine was a long-time parishioner of the parish and member of the Rosary Altar Society. She was the consummate volunteer for church and school events. As she worked and raised her family, she enjoyed the many people she met in Ridgewood. Her willingness to listen, advise and offer support to so many of them created lifelong friendships and lasting memories.
Francine was the heart and soul of her family. Her deep love and devotion to her husband, children, grandchildren, extended family, and countless friends was unwavering. She will be remembered as a devout Catholic with a strong devotion to the Blessed Mother and Saint Jude, an avid reader, a fabulous cook, and a wonderful hostess who always had room at her table. She was beautiful inside and out, epitomizing grace, inner strength, caring, and unconditional love. She had a smile and warm hug for everyone. She leaves us with a legacy of faith and family that will comfort and connect her them in the years to come. She will live on in our hearts forever.

Francine was predeceased by her loving husband, Don, her parents Francis and Elizabeth McCauley, and her sisters Elizabeth and Joanne McCauley. She is survived by her four adored children and their spouses, Donald (Gina) of New York, Mary Beth Pesce (James) of Wyckoff, William (Miyo) of New York, and Judith Cottrell (Jonathan) of Oakland; and her five treasured grandchildren who called her Nana; Alexander Barone, Katherine Cottrell, John Pesce, Julia Pesce and Jack Cottrell. She was a beloved aunt to many nieces and nephews.

The family will receive their friends on Sunday, March 26, 2023 from 2-4 and 6-8 PM at the Feeney Funeral Home, 232 Franklin Avenue, Ridgewood. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 AM on Monday, March 27, 2023 at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Ridgewood. Interment to follow at Valleau Cemetery in Ridgewood. If desired, contributions in Francine’s name may be made to the Sister Lucy Fund at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church or the HorseAbility program for individuals with special needs, www.horseability.org