Frank Anthony Perricone

Frank Anthony Perricone, 79, of Chapel Hill, North Carolina passed away unexpectedly on February 25, 2026. He was born on June 15, 1946 in Onondaga, New York to Frank and Mary (Vinciquerra) Perricone.

Frank was a gentle giant, usually being the tallest in the room, a man whose presence filled a room as fully as his laughter. He could be found daily in his yard working to make it a home ready for game-night with neighbors or meals with family. Frank was devoted to his family and loved deeply; his wife, his grandchildren, his family and wore that love openly. Frank was a friend whose generosity knew no bounds. Frank was known for his altruistic behavior and loyalty; he was always there to help. He was the type of gentleman to give the shirt off his back to someone in need and didn't hesitate to step in to care for someone. Frank moved through life with a quiet heroism that left others in awe. His laugh would echo through a room while his card game skills would leave you pondering his clever strategy moves. Being his partner in Canasta meant there was always a chance he was going for the wild, black 3's and he was hoarding more cards than you realized. If you were his partner in pool, you knew he would keep steady and make the shots when they counted. When Frank wasn't in his yard or playing cards/pool, he could be found watching his nephew's latest comedy special, cheering on Syracuse or eating his wife's phenomenal cooking. He was the perfect taste tester and always went back for seconds "just to make sure it was perfect". Frank stayed up to date on his grandkid's whereabouts and was such a proud Papa, bragging any chance he could about his family.

Frank served for the US Military in the Air Force and was a bold patriot. His career then took him to Niagara Mohawk Power Corporation where he worked until retirement. Frank and his wife worked tenaciously for the retirement they were fortunate to build together in North Carolina. They enjoyed the warm weather that didn't include shoveling snow nine months out of the year. Despite avoiding the cold outdoor temperatures of New York, Frank still managed to find a cold environment while watching his one grandson grow up playing hockey. Frank has spent every celebration and holiday in North Carolina surrounded by family that loved and cherished him dearly. Each time spent together was filled with laughter, good food and in true Frank-fashion, a post-meal-nap.

Frank was an exemplary man whose life was a testament to love and generosity, a steady hand and open heart. A husband, a Papa, an Uncle Frankie; he gave himself fully to his family and in doing so, left the world immeasurably richer. In his presence, you felt warmth; in his absence, you feel the echo of a life lived generously, joyfully, and well.

The world was not ready to lose Frank's gentle spirit and the family prays that Frank is remembered around every pool table, card table and dinner table alike.

Frank is survived by his loving wife of 36 years, Rose Perricone, sister Michele Perricone Rogers (Rick Rogers), his grandchildren, Amanda Lampuri, Maddison Dana (Jared Dana), Gavin Bradshaw, Christian Lampuri and his niece, Paula Bazydlo Bleck, and his nephews, Earl Bazydlo and Steven Rogers.

He was proceeded in death by his parents, Frank and Mary (Vinciquerra) Perricone.

The family will receive loved ones and family at Wake Memorial Park on Thursday, March 12, 2026 from 2pm to 4pm.

Those wishing to send floral tributes are kindly asked to have arrangements delivered to Wake Memorial Park, 7002 Green Hope School Rd, Cary, NC 27519, prior to the service.