Giovannina Ricci (Frabotta) of Medford, passed away peacefully on January 10, 2024, surrounded lovingly by her family, at the age of 92. She was the beloved wife of the late Giuseppe Ricci, cherished mother of Lorenzo Ricci and his wife Lisa of Salem, New Hampshire, Paola Ferrara and her husband Joseph of Stoneham and Pina Rocca and her husband Derek of Stow. She was the devoted “Nonna” to Lorenzo, Mia, Valentina, Christian, Nicolas, Alec and Jonathan. She is also survived by her dear sister-in-law Giulia DiPietro and her husband Romeo of Medford, and many loving nieces and nephews both here and abroad.
She was born on July 2, 1931, to parents Salvatore and Berenice Frabotta in Rionero Sannitico, Italy. After marrying the love of her life, Giovannina, also known to many as “Maria”, immigrated with her family to this country in 1973, settling in the North End of Boston before moving to Medford.
For many years, Maria worked as a presser at Forecaster of Boston, while also working evenings as a cleaner. Over the years, she made many lasting friendships within her communities and was admired greatly for her strong-will, loyalty, and sassiness. A perfect day in Maria’s life would include tending to her abundant garden and feeding her family her homemade pasta. She spent her retirement enjoying her grandchildren and often having an afternoon espresso with her friends.
Visiting hours will be held at the Breslin Funeral Home, 610 Pleasant St., Malden, on Tuesday, January 16th from 10am-11am followed by a Funeral Mass at Immaculate Conception Church, 600 Pleasant St., Malden at 11:30am. Entombment in Holy Cross Mausoleum, Malden. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to the Universal Association of Saint Anthony - Children’s Homes at santodeimiracoli.org or mail to:
Associazione Universale di Sant’Antonio
Via Cappelli 28
35123 Padova Italy