Frances L Canto's Obituary
Canto, Frances LaRussa passed away peacefully after 100 years of a wonderful life on February 18, 2021 with her children by her side. Born August 15, 1920 to parents, Augustino and Rosalia Giglio Castellano, who predeceased her as did siblings Peter Castellano, Angie Maggio, and Nancy Midulla. A lifelong resident and third generation Tampanian, she grew up in Ybor City, attended local schools and graduated from Hillsborough High School and Brewster Tech.
She is predeceased by first husband, Ciro LaRussa, and second husband, John Canto. Frances is survived by children Santo “Sonny” and Augustine “Gus” LaRussa; daughter Jeanette LaRussa Fenton (George); Frank (Linda) Canto, Phillip (Julie) Canto and Terry Canto. Frances was Nana to 10 grandchildren: Robert John “Bobby” Fenton (Chelsea); Anthony, Mark (deceased), Christopher (deceased) LaRussa; Christina LaRussa Calero; John Canto; Natalie Canto Aprile (Jason); Phillip Canto (Angel) Laura Canto Ferrer (Will) and Jason Canto; 17 great grandchildren; 1 great-great grandchild. She is also survived by Goddaughter Velia Parrino (Rick) and a large extended family.
Frances spent her entire 30-year career working for the Hillsborough County Clerk’s Office. Her name appears on many local marriage licenses that she issued, and she also performed marriages at the office and in her home. She was a working mother throughout her career before that was common, coming home every night to prepare delicious meals for her family and taking care of their needs.
Frances was an excellent cook of Italian, Cuban, and other cuisines and hosted countless family dinners and parties. She was happiest surrounded by her family and friends, babysitting her grandchildren, nights out dining and dancing with her beloved John and enjoying their beach condo.
A devout Catholic, Frances was a member first of St. Joseph’s and later of St. Lawrence Catholic Church. She was also a long-time member of the Sons of Italy and the Italian Club.
Frances personified the American Dream and the Greatest Generation. She is dearly loved and admired for the values she lived and instilled – devotion to family, faith, hard work, grit, determination, making the best of difficult circumstances, enjoying life and many more.
The family extends our deepest thanks to Visiting Angels caregivers, Lisa and Marie; very special caregiver, Teresa; and the Lifepath Hospice Plum team.
A Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, February 26 at 9:30 a.m. at St. Lawrence Catholic Church with entombment following at the Italian Club Cemetery. Family and friends are welcome. The service will be live streamed at: https://youtu.be/1euXen1eVWE. Those wishing to honor Frances may donate to: Italian Club Cemetery, 1731 E. 7th Ave., or Meals on Wheels, 550 W Hillsborough Ave. 33614 or the charity of your choice
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