Obituary of Frederica U. Heslin

Frederica Heslin, 82, of Marlborough, passed away peacefully on April 18, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Born in Hartford on July 10, 1943, she was the daughter of the late Anthony and Esther (Fargnoli) Uliano. She graduated from St. Thomas Aquinas High School in New Britain in 1961, where she met the love of her life and future husband, Bill. Frederica went on to earn her teaching degree from Elms College in Chicopee, MA, in 1965.

Frederica and Bill were married on Thanksgiving Day in 1965, beginning a partnership that would span five decades. They made their home in Hartford before moving to Marlborough in 1970, where they raised their family and built a life centered on love, family, and community.

She is survived by her three sons, Tony and his wife Shupta; Bill and his wife Susan; and Matt and his partner Kim; nine grandchildren, Mark, Marina, Morgan, Priya, T.J., Ryan, Chloe, Emma, and Jackson; and four great-grandchildren, Julian, Vaida, Carly, and Gigi. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and extended family members. She was predeceased by her beloved husband of 49 years, Bill, and her brother, Anthony.

Frederica devoted 34 years to teaching, including 30 years at Elmer Thienes Elementary School in Marlborough. She touched the lives of thousands of students and formed lasting friendships with colleagues. Her impact extended far beyond the classroom, shaping generations through her care, patience, and dedication. She will be remembered for the deep connections she built with children and their families.

Frederica and her husband were founding members of St. John Fisher Church in Marlborough and remained active in their community throughout their lives. She was a devoted supporter of her children’s and grandchildren’s activities, rarely missing a game, performance, or event. She and Bill also shared a love of travel, spending cherished time at their Rhode Island vacation home and traveling to destinations including Myrtle Beach, Holland, Italy, Korea, and the Caribbean.

In the final nine months of her life, Frederica was lovingly cared for at home in Marlborough by her son Matt and his partner Kim, along with the unconditional love and comfort provided by Teddy and Scout. Together, they ensured she remained comfortable, supported, and surrounded by love.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday, May 4, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. John Fisher Church, 30 Jones Hollow Rd., Marlborough, followed by burial in Marlboro Cemetery. Calling hours will be held on Sunday, May 3, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Mulryan Funeral Home, 725 Hebron Avenue, Glastonbury. Family and friends are invited to gather immediately following the burial at The Blackledge Tavern. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Frederica’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at www.stjude.org. For online condolences, please visit www.mulryanfh.com.