Francis J. "Frank" Gagliardi

Francis J. "Frank" Gagliardi, 83 of Plainville, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 21, 2025. A devoted father and grandfather, treasured friend, scholar, and advocate, he leaves behind a wealth of knowledge, generosity, and kindness. Born on September 24, 1941 and raised in New Haven, one of two sons to the late James and Emma (Criscuolo) Gagliardi, Francis' early years were shaped by the traditions of his Italian-American heritage; particularly his lifelong love for Italian food and pastries, which became one of his many joys. This early appreciation for culture would grow into a variety of passions, from literature to travel and history to fine cuisine. A world traveler and true "foodie", Francis found joy in exploring new places and the cuisines that defined them, including one of his favorite countries, Brazil.
A lifelong learner and man of remarkable intellect, Francis was a proud graduate of St. Mary's High School in New Haven. He honorably served his country in the Army Reserves. Francis later earned three academic degrees between 1963 and 1980. He held a Bachelor of Science with a concentration in History and Library Science and a Master of Science in Library Science, both from Southern Connecticut State University. He later completed a Master of Science in Organizational Behavior from the University of Hartford. Francis' professional life flourished at Central Connecticut State University (CCSU), where he began as a cataloger in the Elihu Burritt Library and rose to become Associate Director of Library Services, serving the university community with dedication for more than four decades. In the late 1980s, he served as Acting Director of the library, continuing to lead with vision, care, and integrity.
One of his proudest professional achievements was being instrumental in the establishment of the GLBTQ Archives at Burritt Library, earning him CCSU's prestigious Rainbow Award in 2018. Francis' support for gender equality and LGBTQ+ inclusion reflected the values that guided his life: compassion, justice, and the belief in every person's right to be seen and heard.
Francis and his former wife and dear friend Sharon Thaler made their home in Plainville where they raised their two devoted children. In addition, Francis gave tirelessly to the Plainville Public Library, serving on its board for nearly 30 years. In recognition of his extraordinary service, the library honored him with a resource room named in his honor, ensuring his commitment to literacy which continues to inspire future generations.
An avid reader and collector, Francis was especially known for his passion for pop-up and miniature books, which he not only studied with fascination but also shared with others, donating hundreds from his extensive collection to libraries, institutions, and fellow enthusiasts. He proudly served as President of the Connecticut Chapter of the American Collectors of Children's Books, co-founder of the Movable Book Society, and proud member and supporter of the American Book Collectors of Children's Literature. He had a particular reverence for the works of Walt Whitman, whose words spoke deeply to his spirit and sense of humanity.
Francis' life was marked by quiet philanthropy and bold generosity, and he supported the causes closest to his heart. From the universities that shaped him, to the many organizations working toward education, inclusion, and equity, his impact has touched the lives of many. Above all, Francis was a man of warmth, wisdom, and immense heart whose presence enriched countless individuals of all generations.
Francis leaves his daughter, Sarah Geary, her husband Brian and their children Kaili, Conor, and Liam; his son, Brian Gagliardi, his wife Leanne and their children Piper and James; his sister-in-law, Donna Gagliardi; his nephews, Michael and Paul, and their families. He was predeceased by his brother, Carl.
Francis faced health challenges with remarkable grace and resilience. His journey was made significantly easier thanks to the exceptional care and loving support provided by his medical aid, Paulaine Victor, who was an integral part of Francis life during the last several years. The Gagliardi family is eternally grateful to Paulaine for her loyalty and attentiveness. More than just a caregiver, Paulaine became part of the family.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday October 11, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Knock Parish-Church of Saint Patrick, 110 Main St, Farmington. Francis' family will greet guests at the church from 9 to 10 a.m. Burial will be held privately at a later date. The staff at Plainville Funeral Home extends their gratitude to the Gagliardi family for their trust. For online expressions of sympathy, please visit www.PlainvilleFuneralHome.com.