Obituary of Etta Francis

Concetta “Etta” was born to Frank and Olympia Foschini on April 25, 1922, and was the first of three children.

As a young girl, Etta learned to play piano ‘by ear’ and with the help of her Uncle Charlie Impaglia, a piano tuner. She developed a “Stride style” famous with jazz pianists of the day. In time she learned to read sheet music and broadened her repertoire.

Once moving to Short Hills, Etta became a model suburban mom to her daughter’s Carole and Adrienne. She enjoyed cooking, fashion, decorating, parties, travel and taking care of her girls. Many years later she also played the piano professionally part time. Her broad range of music included popular tunes, classical and opera.

The family were members of St Rose of Lima Church. As a member of the Ladies Auxiliary, Etta was instrumental in organizing fund-raisingextravaganzas that made use of all her creative talents. Themed soirees like “Roma Di Notti” (Rome by Night) and an exotic Hawaiian Luau were just two of her memorable efforts.

Etta also worked in the florist business. In 1999, Etta opened the School of Floral Arts and Design in Morristown where she trained students in the art of floral design. Etta’s passion and love of flowers with her gift for floral design translated into a rewarding experience for every student.  

By far, her greatest satisfaction came from a long and loving relationshipwith her grandchildren Devon and Alexander.

Both kids were constantly entertained by their “Gram” with games and laughter. Both were delighted to ‘accompany’ her side by side at her baby grand piano as she played and sang. At age 101 Etta received a bonus with the birth of her great-grandchild Lydia. Though she couldn’t play the piano any longer, Etta was content with singing nursery rhymes to a spell-bound Lydia. Etta passed away in the early morning of January 20, 2025. She was an amazing 102 ¾. 

She is survived by her daughters: Carole Francis and Adrienne Francis (Robert), grandchildren: Devon (Alex) Francis-Grey and Alexander Tholl, great-granddaughter: Lydia Francis-Grey, sister: Olga Rogers, brother: Frank Foschini and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Save the Music Foundation or St Jude’s Children’s Hospital