On Thursday, April 3rd, 2025, longtime Franklin resident Sylvia M Ficco, loving wife, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully after a long illness. She was the wife of the late Paul F. Ficco who died in 2021.
She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Tim and Linda Ficco of of Franklin; her sister, Maria Cottle and her husband Wayne, also of Franklin; her brothers-in-law, James Farnham of New York and Robert Ficco and his wife Eleanor of Franklin; as well as many beloved nieces and nephews. Sylvia was predeceased by her sisters, Josephine Ribeiro and Karen Farnham; her brother, Robert DeCecco; and his partner, Ronnie Stranieri.
Born in Milford, MA, on December 31, 1942, to the late Guistino “Disty” and Maria (D’Aniello) DeCecco. She was a lifelong resident of Franklin and graduated from Franklin High in 1959.
Sylvia was a shining light in the lives of all who knew her. Known for her unwavering love of family, her vibrant Italian heritage, her creativity, and her infectious sense of humor, Sylvia lived her life with a joyful heart and a flair for fun.
Sylvia’s greatest pride and joy was her family. Whether it was sitting around the kitchen table swapping stories, heading out on adventures with her beloved sisters, or enjoying the annual family trip to Martha’s Vineyard, she embraced every moment. One of her most cherished traditions was preparing the Feast of the Seven Fishes on Christmas Eve with her sisters—an all-day labor of love that filled the house with warmth, delicious smells, and generations of love passed down through food and laughter.
Sylvia’s care for others extended far beyond her family. In a beautiful show of her dedication to community, she created and ran the children’s daycare at Ficco's Bowladrome, allowing mothers to take part in the women’s bowling league. Her warmth and love for children made the daycare a safe space for kids and a gift to the many families she supported.
She also had a lifelong love for Elvis Presley—his music was the soundtrack to many joyful moments in her life. Whether she was dancing in the kitchen, singing along in the car, or simply swaying to the melody, Elvis brought out her lighthearted and loving soul. In her final days, it was his music that brought her comfort and peace, playing softly and wrapping her in the familiar warmth of the songs she loved so dearly.
Even in the later years, as Alzheimer's gently stole many of her memories, Sylvia never lost her spirit. She could still be found making funny faces, wiggling her hips in an impromptu dance, and sharing smiles with those around her. Her joy was contagious, her laughter unforgettable.
Sylvia leaves behind a legacy of love, playfulness, and tradition. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered in the hearts of her family and friends.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor Sylvia’s memory by sharing a story, dancing like no one’s watching, or making someone laugh today—just like she would have.
The family would like to extend our deepest gratitude to Cornerstone in Milford for their exceptional care over the last few years.
At Sylvia’s request, there will be no services.
Arrangements are under the care of the Ginley Funeral Home of Franklin(www.ginleyfuneralhomes.com).