Frances B. Savakis 1944-2025
JOHNSTON TOWNSHIP — Frances Beverly Savakis, formerly Tarantino, 80, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, Jan. 31, 2025, at the age of 80 from complications of MS.
Affectionately known as “Frankie,” to family and friends, she was a woman of great spirit, love and devotion.
Frances spent her childhood in Euclid and Northfield, graduating in 1963. The following year, in April 1964, she married Joseph Tarantino, with whom she shared three children: Vincent, Tracy and Natalie. Together, they built a loving home in Newton Falls.
While raising her family, Frances became a dedicated supporter of youth and high school football, passionately involved in every aspect of the programs her son Vince played in. Her love for the game remained unwavering throughout her life, and she cheered on her beloved Ohio State Buckeyes to a National Championship just a week before her passing.
In 1981, Frances pursued her passion for numbers, attending Broheckers Business College to earn her degree in accounting. She often joked that she remembered numbers better than names — perhaps one of the reasons why you could always count on receiving a birthday card from her, year after year.
On March 19, 1995, Frances married her second husband, Nick Savakis, and together they built a life they cherished in Johnston Center on a property they adored.
Frances had a lifelong love for the color purple, often incorporating it into her wardrobe and flowers in her gardens.
Beyond her love for football, Frances was also an avid fan of professional ice skating, secretly dreaming of being a figure skater herself. She had a passion for travel, loved cruising (35 cruises in all) and treasured her many winter vacations with family in Florida, where she made some of her happiest memories.
She leaves behind a legacy of love, loyalty and an indelible spirit that will be dearly missed by all who knew her.
Frances is survived by her children, Vince Tarantino, Tracy Bussler and Natalie Tarantino. She leaves her grandchildren, Brittany, Logan, Lindsey, Joseph, Elizabeth and Michael; and four great-grandchildren, Gannon, Gabriella, Lily and Oliver. Frances is also survived by her sister, Sharon Sobe of Madison; and her former husband, Joe Tarantino; as well as many nieces and nephews.
She now joyfully joins her husband Nick; and her mother, Mae Cannon; and brother, Alan Brew, all who preceded her in death and she missed dearly.
A celebration of Frances’ life will take place 2 p.m. on March 1, 2025, at Johnston Center Community Hall. All are welcome to attend.
The family requests any monetary donations kindly made in her memory be directed to the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation.
(special notice)