Catherine A. (Fricia) Romano

Catherine “Kay” (Fricia) Romano, beloved wife of the late Richard C. Romano, passed away on Saturday, March 25, 2023, surrounded by her loving family.  Born in Boston, she is the beloved daughter of the late John and Antonetta (Sabella) Fricia.

Kay grew up in a close family in the North End of Boston where she was the oldest of seven. She attended Catholic Girl School, was active in the community, and was instrumental in helping to raise her loving siblings. 

Kay met and married the love of her life Richard in Boston while he was still in night school. They went on to raise their three daughters in Reading MA where they enjoyed a beautiful life together for over 55 years. 

Kay had such a zest for life and loved adventures.  She was a talented floral designer and spent many years working for the Busy Bee Florist of Reading. She was an amazing cook and enjoyed all arts and crafts.  She got so much joy from sharing her creations with her loved ones.  Kay loved to travel.  She just recently returned from a  memorable trip to Florida with her entire family and spent quality time with all her loved ones.  Kay was an active part of her daughters and grandchildren’s lives.  She attended Girl Scouts trips, cheering competitions, piano recitals, graduations and all things that had to do with her beloved children and grandchildren.  Kay was a generous and kind person; a loving and devoted mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister and friend.  She will be missed for her unconditional love and all around caring of others especially her family. 

Kay is the devoted mother of Lori Richard of North Andover, Cloie Romano of Reading and the late Dr. Annette McDonough.  Cherished grandmother of Anthony Richard and his significant other Josalyne Resendes of North Andover, Jonathan Richard of North Andover and the late Stephen Richard.  Great grandmother of Joseph, Anthony, Jr. and Audrinna Richard.  Loving sister of Anna Corolla of Needham, John Fricia of Medford, Marguerite Santoro of Stoneham and the late Carmina Itrato, James Fricia and Rita Cicchetti.  Beloved sister-in-law of Patricia Castellini and her husband Herbert of White River Junction, Vermont and Nancy Romano of Agawam.

Family and friends are cordially invited to a funeral mass celebrating Kay at St. Athanasius Church, 300 Haverhill St., Reading on Thursday, March 30th, 2023 at 10:30am.  Interment will follow in Wood End Cemetery, Reading.  There are no visiting hours.

For information, directions and to leave an online condolence, please visit www.cotafuneralhomes.com.

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