Frances Rende Zaccagnino, 93, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, after a long-fought battle with Alzheimer’s.
Frances Rende Zaccagnino
Frances was born in San Fili, Calabria, Italy on November 9, 1932, the daughter of Josephine Cesario Rende and Carmine Rende. After arriving in the US at a young age, the family settled in New Rochelle, NY where she was raised. Frances graduated from New Rochelle High School and went to work for NBC and later for the Paulist Fathers Missionary.
Frances met her late husband Nicholas Joseph Zaccagnino whom she married on February 13, 1955. They celebrated 64 years of marriage before his passing in 2019.
Frances had a life rich in love, laughter and culinary delights. Her kitchen was the heart of the home, and she thoroughly enjoyed feeding family and friends. She also had a love of gardening which was apparent to whomever visited her home. Frances was also an enthusiastic bridge player who would play several times a week.
She is survived by her daughters Anne DiCeglie (Frank) of New Canaan, CT and Susan Fay (Thomas) of Vienna, VA. She was a loving “Nani” to Joseph DiCeglie (Anna) of New York City, Danielle Basso (Andrew) of Stamford, CT, Lisa Fay of Vienna, VA and her great-grandchildren Ella and Charlie Basso.
Calling hours will be Monday, June 8, 2026 from 4pm-8pm at Hoyt Funeral Home, 199 Main St, New Canaan, CT 06840. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St Aloysius Catholic Church 21 Cherry St, New Canaan, CT 06840 on Tuesday, June 9, 2026 at 11:00am.
For online condolences please visit www.hoytfuneralhome.com
Her love for her family will forever be remembered.
In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Foundation.