Filomena (Dolly) Franco

Herkimer – Filomena Dolores “Dolly” Franco, 92, a longtime Herkimer resident, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at her home, surrounded by the devoted care of her family, who were by her side.
She was born on May 7, 1933, in Coatesville, Pennsylvania, the daughter of the late Michael and Leona (Iacobucci) Massimo. Dolly was a graduate of St. Johnsville High School.
On October 9, 1958, Dolly was united in marriage to Ralph Franco Sr. at the former St. Patrick's Catholic Church in St. Johnsville. The couple shared 63 years of marriage until Ralph’s passing on April 13, 2022.
Throughout her career, Dolly dedicated many years to the Herkimer County Public Health Department, where she formed lasting friendships that stayed with her throughout her life. She had also worked at the former Montgomery Ward in Herkimer. She remained a faithful member of the Church of Sts. Anthony & Joseph during her lifetime.
Dolly’s life was centered around her family. She cherished every moment spent with her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and siblings, and especially loved her visits to Cape Cod to spend time with her granddaughter Janasa and her husband Chris. She enjoyed shopping trips with her sister and grandchildren, and she was a wonderful cook whose meals brought everyone together. Her Christmas traditions and her unforgettable chicken cacciatore remain part of her family’s story. She loved unconditionally, had a heart of gold, and carried a kindness that made everyone feel welcomed, seen, and loved.
She is survived by her beloved son, Ralph Franco Jr. and partner, Cynthia DeRosa, of Herkimer; and daughter and son-in-law, Domenica and Kelly Ogden of Herkimer. She is survived by her grandchildren who brought so much joy to her life: Janasa and her husband, Chris Livingston; Justina Franco and her partner, Steven Mikus; Jared Ogden and his partner, Amanda Terry; Alycia Ogden and her partner Tyler Freunscht; and Sonya Ogden. She is also survived by her great-grandchildren, Evelyn Ogden, Giovanni Ogden, and Harlow Ogden. 
In addition, she is survived by her siblings: Florence Johnson and her partner, Sean, of Ilion; Mickey Walrath of West Palm Beach, FL; and sister-in-law, Netta Sands of Daytona Beach, FL. She is survived by many nieces, nephews, and cousins who held her close in their hearts.
She was predeceased by her brother, Andrew Sands Jr.; her brother-in-law, Alan Walrath; her brother-in-law, Anthony, and his wife, Mayme Franco; and her sisters-in-law, Anna Franco Wiliczka and her husband, Stan; Philomena and her husband, Joseph Lamarco; Pierina and her husband, Roger Stasilli; Lydia and her husband, Steve Salamone; and Yvonne Franco.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, December 11, 2025, at 12:00 noon at the Church of Sts. Anthony & Joseph, South Main St., Herkimer, NY, with Reverend Justin Thomas officiating. There are no calling hours. Dolly will be laid to rest with her husband, Ralph, at Calvary Cemetery in the spring. Arrangements are under the caring guidance of the locally owned and family-operated Vincent A. Enea Funeral Service (next to Hannaford Markets), 527 E. Albany St., Herkimer, NY.

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