Frances Amato Rivellese

Frances Amato Rivellese

It is with great sadness, we share the news of Fran’s passing at Lourdes Noreen McKeen Residence, West Palm Beach, on May 12th, 2025, at the age of 81. Born on August 6, 1943 in Brooklynn NY, before moving to Laurinburg, North Carolina and finally settling down in Royal Palm Beach Florida, Fran touched the lives of everyone she met with her warmth, kindness, and unwavering love. Her presence brought light to every room and her humor was an attribute that will forever echo in our hearts.

Fran lived a life filled with purpose and passion. She was cherished for her boundless generosity, contagious humor, and faithful dedication to her church. Whether it was party planning, preparing delicious holiday meals, pursuing her love for gardening, or teaching elementary students faith formation, Fran showed us the beauty of living with integrity and heart. Her sentiments are countless, but her greatest legacy is the love she left behind.

Fran was a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt who always cherished family. She is survived by her loving family; daughters, Laura Hansen and Jennifer Smith; brothers, Reverend Nicholas P. Amato and James Amato (Karen); Grandchildren Logan Hansen, Ian, Claire and Lauren Smith. Preceded in passing by her parents Paul and Mary Amato, Son in Law Michael Smith, she held them in their heart always and spoke of them with fondness and devotion.

A celebration of Fran’s life will take place at 11:00 AM on Tuesday July 8th, 2025, at Our Lady Queen of the Apostles Catholic Church , where friends and family are invited to gather, share stories, and honor a life that brought so much joy and meaning to us all. This will be a time to embrace one another in love and remember the extraordinary person Fran was.

Though we mourn the loss of Fran, her memory remains a guiding light in our lives. She showed us how to love deeply, laugh freely, and give selflessly. As we carry her memory forward, we find comfort in knowing that she will always be a part of us—watching over us with the same love she shared during her time here.

Rest peacefully, dearest Fran, you will be missed beyond measure but never forgotten.

In lieu of flowers, feel free to make a donation in Fran's name to the Alzheimer's Association of America.