Obituary of Frances Margaret Norris - Pettersen

Frances M. Norris-Pettersen (Frankie, aka Nanny Bubbles), 75, of Staten Island, NY, passed away on January 6, 2020, at home surrounded by family and friends. Frankie was born on December 3, 1944 in San Luis Obispo, California, the daughter of Mary Margaret and Michael Norris. She was the oldest of 2 siblings, mother of 2 and grandmother of 6. She is survived by: her children, Cecelia and her former husband Anthony Zappola and Erik and Minerva Pettersen; her grandchildren, Caitlin, Anthony, and Matthew Zappola and Tyler and Luke Pettersen; and 2 great grandchildren. She is predeceased by her grandson, Jake Pettersen, brother, Michael Norris, nephew, Michael Norris, Jr., and former husband, Richard Pettersen. Frankie earned her M.ED. from St. John's University in 1974 and remained active in alumni activities until her death. She was also a lifelong member of the United Federation of Teachers. Frankie was a dedicated advocate for universal education and an award-winning teacher who taught at I.S.49 for more than 30 years. She loved and was loved by both her students and colleagues and worked hard to enrich their lives and learning. Frankie was a skilled craftsperson and continued to be active in the arts community on Staten Island upon her retirement. She was an active member of the South Shore Artists group and Art in the Park (later Art in the Church) classes. She freely shared her watercolors and handmade blankets and helped many people develop their own artistic skills and talents. She made several journeys to visit her family in Newfoundland and would have loved to travel more widely. She loved her family, her friends, her art and teaching. And she will be deeply missed. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to St. John's University Alumni Association in memory of Frances. Funeral from the Matthew Funeral Home Inc., 2508 Victory Blvd. On Saturday, 1/11/2020, departing at 9:30 AM. Funeral Mass will be celebrated in Holy Family R.C. Church at 10:00 AM. Interment will follow in St. Peter's Cemetery. Family and friends may visit on Friday, 1/10/2020 from 2:00 to 4:00 and 6:00 to 9:00 PM.