Norma J. Francesco

Norma Jean (Stafinski) Francesco (66), of Charlton, passed away on September 9, 2026, after a hard-fought battle with pancreatic cancer. She passed away peacefully in her childhood home, spending her final days being cared for and surrounded by those who loved her.

She leaves behind two adult children, her daughter Nicole and her husband Nathaniel, and their daughters Chava and Cora, and her son Thomas and his partner Brianna, and their daughters Emma and Lyla. She also leaves behind her mother, Lillian Stafinski, her sister Susan Johnson, her brother Scott Stafinski, several nieces and nephews, and many other cherished family members and friends. She is predeceased by her husband, Jon Francesco, and her father, William Stafinski.

When asked to describe Norma, the most frequently used words are kind, generous, loving, and spirited. She loved with her whole heart and was fiercely protective of those she loved. She could always be counted on to lend a hand or provide a listening ear. She loved to bring joy and laughter to those around her, and always had a story to tell. She had a fantastic sense of humor and a terrible sense of direction, both of which brought many fun stories and experiences to those who were lucky enough to know her.

She loved spending time with her children, whether it was driving to Maine or NH for the day, exploring local thrift stores, or simply having dinner together. To Norma, nothing was better than being a mother. That was until she became a grandmother. “Nonni” was happiest surrounded by her four granddaughters, whether it was singing silly songs with them, playing hide and seek, surprising them with a new toy, or just snuggling with them while they slept.

Norma lived a full life. She began working in a pharmacy at the age of 19 as a clerk, eventually becoming a pharmacy technician and manager. She remained there for over 35 years until the owner retired and the business closed. When her children were young, she went back to school to become an EMT and worked for several years on a 911 ambulance service. Instead of retiring, she became a vet tech, working at the Millbury Animal Clinic alongside one of her closest friends, as well as a staff member at an after-school program for children on the autism spectrum. Even when she eventually “retired,” she refused to slow down and ran a flea market stand with her friend on the weekends and pet sat for many of her animal patients. Through all of this, Norma maintained her generous spirit and love of fun, always insisting on living life by her own rules. Outside of work and family, she loved exploring new places and experiences, browsing yard sales and antique stores, meeting people, chatting with friends, and bringing joy to others. There are no words to describe how greatly she will be missed.

Per Norma’s wishes, there will be no memorial services or calling hours. Burial will be private. Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel, 370 Plantation Street, Worcester is honored to assist the family with arrangements.