Frances J. Sainato 1929-2025

Frances was born Dec. 7, 1929, in Youngstown, a daughter of the late Nicola and Mary Citarelli Sainato, and was a lifelong area resident.

She was a proud graduate of Girard High School, Class of 1947, and went on to work at Copperweld Steel Company, where she held the distinction of being the only woman employed in management — a role she was proud of during Youngstown’s booming steel era. Frances retired in 1984, devoting her later years to helping raise her nieces and nephews.

If you looked up “independent woman,” you might just find a photo of Francie. But she was so much more — sweet, generous, quick-witted and stylish. Her closet was a thing of legend and she never missed a chance to treat the kids to something special at the mall. She was known for her loyalty, her laughter and for showing up fully — always dressed to the nines and ready to love, support and celebrate her people.

She lived through nearly a century of change, from the Great Depression to the bombing of Pearl Harbor on her 12th birthday. Her life was rich in friendships — many lifelong — and she remained a vibrant, devoted presence in her family’s lives. Frances helped raise her nieces and nephews, played a central role in every holiday and gathering, and passed down not only gifts, but enduring lessons in strength, style and love.

Frances is survived by her nieces and nephews, Robert (Janet) Sainato, Pam (Robert) Goist and Jim (Pattie) Sainato; her great-nieces and great-nephews, Alyssa Goist, Kristen (Matt) Rutter, Nick (Tyler) Sainato, Jordan (Mary) Sainato, Danielle (Jeff) Mentzer and Taylor Sainato; her great-great-niece, Nell Sainato; and her great-great-nephew, Carmine Sainato. She also leaves many extended family members and the “fur babies” she so adored.

In addition to her parents, Frances was preceded in death by her brother, Robert Sainato; her sister, Rosemarie Santangelo; her sister-in-law, who was her sidekick for many years, Frances Sainato; and her brother-in-law, Perry Santangelo.

Family and friends may gather to pay respects from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Friday, April 25, 2025, at St. Rose Church, 48 E. Main St., Girard, where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m.

Interment will follow in Calvary Cemetery in Youngstown.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Kinnick Funeral Home in Girard. Visit kinnickfuneralhome.com to share this obituary and to send condolences to Frances’ family.

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