Frank Francis, 95, passed away peacefully at his home in Rye on April 19, 2020. He was 95.

 

Born on the small volcanic island of Nisyros, Greece, he immigrated to the United States as a young boy where he attended school and worked at his family’s candy and ice cream store, Francis Shop.

 

A World War II veteran and Purple Heart recipient, he was wounded twice in battle and continued to serve his country even when a bullet was inadvertently left behind in his back. 

 

After the war, the GI Bill made college possible. He joined the State of New York as an internal auditor and retired after 39 years as Director of State Audits.

 

For thirty years, the Francis family lived in Albany. After Mr. Francis retired, he and his wife, Mouschoula, enjoyed many years on Levos, Moschoula’s home island. In 2007, they moved to Rye to be closer to family. 

 

Frank Francis radiated kindness with every interaction. Friends and strangers never left his home without being given a bag of candy. He was loved and cherished and will be truly missed by family and friends. 

 

Mr. Francis was predeceased by his wife. He is survived by his three sons, Dean (Kathy), Ted (Joanne), and George, and his beloved grandchildren, Matthew, Nicholas, Nicole, Alexis, and Elina. 

 

He was a devout parishioner of the Greek Orthodox Church of Our Saviour in Rye, where donations in his memory may be made.