Connie Francis, born Concetta Rosa Maria Franconero, has died at the age of 87. The legendary singer, known for classics like Stupid Cupid, Who’s Sorry Now, and the recently resurfaced Pretty Little Baby, passed away on the night of July 16.
The news was confirmed the next day by Ron Roberts, president of Concetta Records and a longtime friend, through a Facebook post.
She was born on December 12, 1937, in Newark, New Jersey, to an Italian-American family. She spent her early childhood in the Crown Heights section of Brooklyn, near Utica Avenue and St. Mark’s Place, before the family moved to New Jersey.
Francis was the first child of George Franconero Sr. and Ida Franconero (née Ferrari-di Vito).
The late iconic singer began playing accordion and singing before starting grade school. At 14, Francis was already recording demo tracks.
She was also known for a widely publicised romantic connection with Bobby Darin, which, however, ended due to interference from his father.
Let’s know more about her parents and family tragedy.
Her Father, George J. Franconero Sr., Was Her Manager
Connie Francis’ father, George J. Franconero Sr., played a central role in guiding both her career and early life.
From the age of four, he encouraged her to enter talent shows, sing at local events, and perform with her accordion. His guidance pushed her toward public performances from a young age, eventually leading to appearances on television, including NBC’s Startime Kids.
Francis attended Newark Arts High School and later graduated as salutatorian from Belleville High School in 1955. During her school years, she continued performing and gaining attention.
Mr. Franconero also managed his daughter’s career for three decades before his retirement. He passed away on October 15, 1996, at his home in Florham Park, New Jersey, at the age of 85. According to reports, he had been in poor health for three years.
In 1983, nearly a decade after Francis was raped and beaten at knifepoint in a New York motel, her father had her committed to a psychiatric facility in Fort Lauderdale following a suicide attempt. She later spent several years in treatment across hospitals in Florida.
Her Mother, Ida C. Ferrara Franconero, Died in 2000
Connie’s mom, Ida C. Ferrara Franconero, passed away on January 12, 2000, at the age of 88. She died at her home in Parkland, Florida, surrounded by loved ones.
Born on October 15, 1911, in New York City, Ida remained closely involved in Connie’s life. After the death of her father, Connie and her mother moved into the Parkland home where Ida would live out her final years.
The Everybody’s Somebody’s Fool singer often spoke fondly of her mother. Connie once shared how Ida would cook for fans who camped outside their home in Essex Fells, New Jersey, during the peak of her fame. “She was the most giving soul,” Francis said, recalling how her mother made sure no one ever left hungry. “She was wonderful. We had a great relationship.”
Brother Was Killed by the Mafia
In 1981, Francis’ brother, George Franconero Jr., was murdered by Mafia hitmen. He was 40 years old and working as an attorney. A former law partner of Governor Brendan Byrne, he was shot while scraping ice from his car in the driveway of his home in North Caldwell.
He had testified against mob activity and refused witness protection. Francis, who was very close to him, later said his death forced her to stop “wallowing in self-pity” and take responsibility for her extended family.
Connie Francis’ Ethnicity and Religion
She was Italian-American, born to parents of Italian descent. One of her grandfathers immigrated from Reggio Calabria in 1905, and the family lived in the Ironbound neighborhood of Newark, New Jersey.
Connie grew up in a mixed Italian-Jewish community, which led her to become fluent in Yiddish. That cultural blend influenced her music, and later in her career, she recorded several songs in Yiddish, Hebrew, and bilingual versions that included English.
