LAKELAND, FLA.-Francesca Spain, 56, passed away suddenly on Thursday, Nov. 3, 2016 in Lakeland, Florida.

She was born on April 7, 1960 in Grosse Pointe, Michigan to Peter J. Tarantino and Patricia (Pratt) Whitten. Francesca co-owned and operated Maine Art Gallery in Kennebunk for many years.

Francesca moved to Sebring, Florida three years ago from Kennebunk. She was involved in a recovery community and had a love for people. She worked at the YMCA and volunteered for therapeutic horseback riding, and was also a member of The Elks Club in Sebring.

She worked for hospice in Maine with a passion for her work. She enjoyed calling and playing bingo, bicycling, running, hiking, bowling, canoeing and traveling. She also loved music, reading, writing and some painting. She was very proud of the opportunity to be an organ donor.

Survivors include her parents, sister, Theresa Haggett of Poland Spring; brother, John Vince Tarantino of Gloucester, Massachusetts; and nieces: Maryssa Haggett and Kayla Haggett. Francesca was preceded in death by her brother, Isadore Tarantino.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, Nov. 26 at The Beachmere Inn in Ogunquit from 2 to 5 p.m. Donations to hospice can be made in Francesca's name.