Frances K. Peña

Frances K. Peña (née Notoriano), age 81, of Chicago Heights, Illinois, passed away peacefully Wednesday, September 24, 2025. A lifelong resident of Chicago Heights and proud graduate of Bloom High School, Frances lived a life rooted in family, faith, and community. 

Beloved mother of Debra Cary. Cherished grandmother of Lisa (Eric) Anderson, Steven (Jennifer) Seeder, Frank (Isabel) Cary, and Jessica (Aaron Montgomery) Cary. Dear “Gigi” to her great-grandchildren Lincoln, Hank, Heidi, Hailey, Zane, Eleanor, and Finn. Fond aunt of many nieces and nephews. 

Frances was like a second mom and grandma to many. Though she had her blood family, her loyalty created even more family — because everyone who walked into her life was treated with unconditional love and respect. She had an open heart and an open home, and there was always a hot meal ready for anyone passing through her door. She was an angel on earth, and now in Heaven. 

She was preceded in death by her son Joseph Peña, her parents Minnie and Charles Notoriano, and her siblings Frank Notoriano and Carmella (late Robert) Johnson. Frances will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her. Her family finds peace in knowing that she is now dancing, singing, and playing bingo with the angels in Heaven.

 Visitation to be held Friday, October 3, 2025, from 3:00 – 8:00 p.m. at Smits – Steger Memorial Chapel. Prayer Service to be held Saturday, October 4, 2025, at 10:15 a.m. at Smits – Steger Memorial Chapel. Funeral Mass to follow at 11:00 a.m. at San Rocco Oratory, 315 22nd St, Chicago Heights, IL 60411. Interment to be held at Assumption Cemetery, Glenwood, Illinois.

Arrangements entrusted to Smits - Steger Memorial Chapel. For more information, please call 708-755-6100 or visit our online obituary and guestbook at www.SMITSFH.com