Frank A. Solari Jr.

Frank A. Solari, Jr passed peacefully to God on March 11, 2024 at age 97. He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Agnes Solari, and his three sisters, Mary S. Bonuccelli, Regina S. Mallahan, and Sister Mary Agnes Solari, RSM.

Frank is survived by his beloved wife of 69 years, Joan Hudson Solari, three daughters Michelle Smith (David), Joan Giovannetti (Charles), Patricia Littlejohn (Matthew), two sons Charles and Michael (Vicky), 11 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

Frank was a proud member of Benedictine High School, Class of 1943. He graduated at the young age of 16. His parents’ signatures were needed for him to enlist during WWII. He proudly served his country in the Marine Corps as a Seahorse aboard the USS Chicago and in the Occupation of Japan.

Following the service, Frank received his Bachelor’s degree from St. Benedict’s College in Atchison, Kansas and his Master’s degree from Catholic University in Washington, D.C.

Frank enjoyed a 39 year career in education. He served as a math teacher at Chandler Jr. High, football coach at John Marshall, assistant principal at Varina and Hermitage High Schools, principal at Maude Trevvett, Administrator of evening classes at the Henrico Adult Education Center, and as Director of Guidance and tennis coach at Hermitage High School. He also served as adjunct faculty at VCU and J. Sargeant Reynolds.

Frank was a licensed private pilot and enjoyed flying with his wife as navigator. He also enjoyed playing tennis and traveling with his family.

Frank was a lifetime member of St. Paul Catholic Church where he served as religious education instructor, Eucharistic Minister, lector, and cantor. His life centered on faith, family, and service to others.

The family will receive friends from 6 to 8pm on Friday, March 15th at Bliley’s-Central Chapel, 3801 Augusta Ave. with a Christian Wake service at 7:30pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Abbot Placid Solari, OSB, at 12:00 pm on Saturday, March 16 at St. Paul Catholic Church 909 Rennie Ave., Richmond, VA. Inurnment will take place at a later date at St Paul’s columbarium. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Paul Catholic Church or a charity of your choice.