Francine C. Kirley, long-time resident of Leverett, MA passed away at her home in Amherst, MA on the morning of August 24, 2024.

Francine was born in Niagara Falls, NY on August 16th, 1943 and is the daughter of the late Theresa Marie Trombetta Zaso and Ray Anthony Zaso and the sister of Ray A. Zaso and Andrea Murphy.

Francine lost her beloved husband, the late Lloyd Abbott Kirley, in 2007 and is survived by her three sons Lance, Aaron and Keith; daughter-in-laws Jacqueline, Jessica and Elizabeth, as well as 10 wonderful grandchildren.  She was an incredibly caring and supportive mother and grandmother and her deep empathy and compassion for others was felt by the many strong friendships she developed throughout her life.  She was the heart and soul of our family, and she will be dearly missed.

Throughout her career Francine worked in several radiology departments in Western Massachusetts where she developed close friendships and spread her cheerful and positive spirit to patients and colleagues.

Francine was creative and had a passion for learning.  Her interests included weaving, photography, reading and art history.  She adored the water and was happiest throughout her life when near it. She was an avid swimmer and loved sailing with her husband and family on their sailboat in Rhode Island.  Francine traveled widely in support of her childrens’ athletic and academic pursuits, providing endless support and encouragement along the way.  She developed many lasting friendships during this period of her life and it brought her great joy.

Francine’s funeral will be held on September 13th with a Mass of Christian Burial at Saint Brigid’s Church in Amherst, MA at 10AM followed by a reception and celebration of life at the Inn at Boltowood in Amherst from 11:30AM – 3PM. 

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The Friends of the North Leverett Sawmill in honor of Francine Kirley (www.leverettsawmill.org/donate) to support the rehabilitation and preservation of the Old Mill Property that was close to her heart and where she lived for many years.

Memorial register at www.douglassfuneral.com