Francesca Winfield biography:
Francesca Winfield is a former UK beauty queen.
She is best known as the wife of American singer Lou Christie, who passed away on June 18, 2025, at the age of 82 due to a short illness in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States. They married in November 1971. They had two children named Bianca Lucia and Christopher W. Sacco.
The family said, “He was cherished not only by his family and close friends, but also by countless fans whose lives he touched with his kindness and generosity…”
Her husband was known for “Lightnin’ Strikes” and “I’m Gonna Make You Mine” as a singer and songwriter.
He sang various songs including Lightning Strikes (MGM, 1965), Painter Of Hits (MGM, 1966), I’m Gonna Make You Mine (Buddah, 1969), Paint America Love (Buddah, 1971), Lou Christie (Three Brothers, 1974), Lou Christie Does Detroit (51 West, 1982), Pledging My Love (Varèse Sarabande, 1997), Greatest Hits Live From The Bottom Line (Varèse Sarabande, 2004), The Turquoise Trail (Lightning Strikes, 2012), and Summer In Malibu (Lightning Strikes, 2015). His full name is Lugee Alfredo Giovanni Sacco.
After he completed his graduation from high school in 1961, he moved to New York City and began working as a session vocalist.
“Shocked & Saddened to hear Lou Christie has passed away… Didn’t know about his illness and now he’s gone,” Musician Fabian statement.
Several years ago, Lou was at the Hollywood Casino in Tunica, Ms. We sed to go there so many times that everyone knew us. I was getting a new card and told the person that as a teenager I bought several albums, but my parent’s house burned, and I lost them. Then I got married, had kids and I just never replaced them. But seeing him in person was really great. I was playing a slot machine right by the stage and singing my heart out. I still remembered the lyrics to all of them. I also hit 3 jackpots, so it was lucky for me. My son got me a cd for Christmas and 2 days before Christmas I went to the mailbox and there was a package, I opened it up and there was his cd and a Christmas card wishing me and my family a Merry Christmas, Happy New Year and thanks for being a fan all of these years. I never opened his cd because it was the same as my son’s. I’m 74 years old and still play the CDs I have got since then. I couldn’t figure out how come he sent that to me but the guy behind the counter told him about me and that’s where he got my address. Can’t believe he took the time to do that. But it really shows what a kind man he was and how much he appreciated his fans. Rest in peace Lou. You were loved. My prayers go out to his wife and children.