Francine Rita Hassiepen, age 77, of Newark, passed away unexpectedly at home on Saturday, March 5, 2022.

Francine was born in Philadelphia, PA, daughter of the late Susie (Iannelli) and Louis Paolocci. She graduated from Notre Dame high school in Swarthmore, PA and went on to attend technical school for hair styling. She more than loved her job, working at several different salons in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Delaware, and more recently, working out of her home salon.

She married the love of her life, John, in 1968, and they frequently attended concerts together, and they especially loved The Chatterband. Francine had a passion for gardening and going to the South Jersey Shore every summer. Dancing and entertaining were her source of true happiness, and spending time with her family and friends was her entire purpose.

Truly the center of attention, Fran soaked up every minute. She worked hard to present herself in a positive light always and encouraged others to be joyous, have fun and live life to the fullest, all with a smile. She would want us all to catch live music when we are able and to not forget to look for mermaids at sunset.

Francine is survived by her loving husband, John; sons, John and James; grandsons, John and Michael; sister, Marcella Paolocci, and numerous family and lifelong friends. She was beloved by all, kind, generous, humorous, and caring.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, March 13, 2022, from 1-2 PM with a celebration of life beginning at 2 PM at the Mealey Funeral Home, 2509 Limestone Rd, Wilmington, DE 19808.

Upon Francine's request she will be cremated, so in lieu of flowers , the family suggests donations in Francine's name to help maintain the gardens at the Hereford Lighthouse in North Wildwood, NJ. Send a check made payable to "The Hereford Lighthouse Trust" Attention: City Clerk, 901 Atlantic Ave., North Wildwood, NJ 08260