Frank S. DeFranco

Frank S. DeFranco, 90, passed away peacefully in his home on February 22, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of strength, resilience, and deep devotion to his family. Born on August 16, 1935, in Hackensack, New Jersey, Frank grew up in Lodi and married the love of his life, Yvonne (nee Sessa) in 1958. They moved to Hawthorne in 1964 where they raised their family. In 1983, Frank and Yvonne moved to Vernon, New Jersey.

In his early years, Frank worked as a carpenter, a trade that reflected his love of building and his strong work ethic. He later continued his career with larger construction companies working on many buildings in the New York Metropolitan area.

Outside of work, Frank had a lifelong passion for horses. When Frank and Yvonne moved from Hawthorne to Vernon in 1983, they constructed a barn on the property and established High Vista Farm, a horse farm, boarding up to 30 horses. Frank enjoyed horseback riding on the many trails on his farm. He became involved in breeding horses with his favorite Palomino, CC. He enjoyed hunting and fishing and listening to Country music. He loved watching old western movies on TV, especially John Wayne movies, with his favorite being "The Searchers." Frank was known for his strong opinions and his many stories about growing up in Lodi, working on construction sites, his unmistakable personality, and raw authenticity.

Frank is survived by Yvonne (nee Sessa), his beloved wife of 67 years, his daughter, Donna Setlock, and her husband, Robert; his son, Frank, and his wife, Shawn, his son Michael and his wife, Cindy, and his treasured grandchildren, Michael DeFranco, Joseph DeFranco, Ami Setlock (Hogue) (Gary), Jim Setlock (Jenna), Yvonne (Setlock) Francica (Nicholas), Anthony DeFranco (Mary) and Nicole (DeFranco) Abramson (Jon), who brought him immense pride and happiness. He has also been blessed with six great-grandchildren, Owen DeFranco, Connor Hogue, Lily DeFranco, Tyler Hogue, Emma DeFranco, Amelia Setlock and Olivia Francica. He is survived by his sister, Maria (DeFranco) Adornetto, as well as many relatives and friends; and all whom were fortunate to know and love him.

He was predeceased by his beloved mother, Ida DeFranco (née Albanese), and his father, Frank R. DeFranco, as well as the many aunts, uncles and cousins, who were part of the close-knit family that shaped his early life.

Above all else, Frank will be remembered as a devoted husband, father and grandfather whose presence, character, and love shaped his family in lasting ways. He will be deeply missed and forever held in their hearts.

Visitation for Frank will be held on Friday, February 27, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Ferguson-Vernon Funeral Home (One Vanderhoof Court for GPS) 241 Route 94, Vernon, NJ 07462. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Association, Tunnels to Towers or the ASPCA.