Francis A. Puiia

PORTLAND – Francis A. Puiia, 88, of Portland, passed away peacefully on Jan. 6, 2026. He was born on June 9, 1937, in Rumford, to Italian immigrant parents who instilled in him a deep love of family, faith, and tradition.

At age nine, Francis contracted tuberculosis, which left him disabled. Rather than let this define him, Francis demonstrated remarkable resilience and independence throughout his life, living on his own terms until his final days. In the 1960s, he worked at John Hancock in Boston, building a career despite the challenges he faced.

A devout Catholic from cradle to grave, Francis’s faith was the cornerstone of his life. He was a dedicated member of his church community and found joy in helping others whenever he could. His interests centered on his faith, nutrition, and staying connected to his community.

Francis cherished his role as uncle to his nieces and nephews, spending countless hours with them during their childhood visits to their grandparents’ home. He delighted in his mother’s Italian home cooking and carried forward the warmth and generosity of his immigrant heritage. His love for his parents was profound, and he maintained deep bonds with his family throughout his life.

Francis is survived by his sister, Rita G. Zanoni (Puiia), and countless nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Antonio F. Puiia and Maria Puiia (Di Salle); his brother Vito F. Puiia; and his sisters, Pauline Aharonian (Puiia), Angela Patrikis (Puiia), and Joan Stinnette (Puiia).

Friends and family are invited to share memories of Francis at http://www.meaderandson.com.

A funeral mass will be celebrated at Holy Savior Catholic Church, 126 Maine Ave., Rumford, on Saturday, Feb. 7, 2026, at 11 a.m. Francis will be laid to rest in the spring, reunited with his beloved family.