Francis C. Lottridge

5/19/1932 - 10/9/2025

Melrose, Mass. - Francis C. Lottridge, beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 93 Oct. 9, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Born May 19, 1932, in Delaware, Frank spent his formative years in Melrose, Mass., a community that would forever hold a special place in his heart. He was a proud graduate of Melrose High School, as were his brother, Larry, mother, Edith Blair, and his son, Brian - a family tradition that reflected their deep and lasting connection to the city of Melrose.

During his high school years, Frank excelled both academically and athletically. He was an accomplished golfer and cross-country runner, and he demonstrated discipline, curiosity, and a love of learning that distinguished him in the classroom as much as on the playing fields.

His academic and athletic pursuits continued at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, where he participated in track, cross country, and wrestling, while maintaining a strong academic record. Frank embraced the challenges of the Academy with determination and integrity. Recently, he celebrated his 70th reunion at the Academy with four of his classmates, a testament to the enduring friendships and connections that remained central to his life.

Frank met the love of his life, Sharon, while both were working at IBM, where he built a successful and respected career until his retirement in 1987.

In 2007, Frank and Sharon moved to Connecticut to be closer to their son Brian, his wife Catherine, and their grandchildren, Abby, Aidan and Jake. In Connecticut, they were active members of the Thames Club, Connecticut's oldest social club, where they enjoyed its rich history and vibrant community.

A proud alumnus of the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, Class of 1954, Frank devoted his life to service and camaraderie. He spent three years as commanding officer on the island of Angaur in the South Pacific and continued his service for another 30 years in the Coast Guard Reserves, achieving the rank of commander. Frank and Sharon rarely missed a Coast Guard graduation and were loyal attendees at countless football games, cherishing the friendships and traditions of the Academy community.

Frank's passion for golf was a defining part of his life. A member of Bellevue Golf Club in Melrose, Mass., for an astounding 80 years, he served in various officer roles and was a beloved presence on the course. Each year for the past two decades, he especially looked forward to playing in the Hooligan Invitational, a Coast Guard Alumni Tournament held at Elmridge Golf Course in Connecticut with his son, Brian.

Beyond golf, Frank enjoyed gardening and skiing, and for many years, he and his family spent time in Jonesville, Vt., where they skied at Bolton Valley, hiked, and swam during the warmer months. These trips reflected Frank's love of the outdoors and the joy he found in sharing adventures with family.

Frank was predeceased by his parents, Edith Blair and Chester Lottridge; his brother, Lawrence Lottridge; and sister-in-law, Dana Parry. He is survived by his devoted wife, Sharon Lottridge; his son, Brian Lottridge and his wife Catherine of East Lyme; and his cherished grandchildren, Abby, Aidan and Jake. He is also survived by his sister-in-law Margie Lottridge; nieces: Lauren, Karen, Susan and Kirsten Davis; brothers-in-law, Dennis Murphy (Elizabeth), Sean Murphy (Colleen) and Shannon Murphy (Nim); and Bob Parry, husband of his deceased sister-in-law Dana Parry; along with many other nieces, nephews, and their children who loved him dearly.

Frank will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to family, his enduring friendships, and his lifelong loyalty to the Coast Guard and Bellevue Golf Club. His intellectual curiosity, discipline, and humor touched everyone who knew him, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege to share in his remarkable life.

A service to celebrate Frank's life will be held at a later date, to be determined. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to the Francis Ouimet Scholarship Fund, an organization that reflects Frank's lifelong love of golf and commitment to supporting others. Please visit www.fultontherouxniantic.com for tributes and updated service information.