Francis “Franny” Iacovone, born August 11, 1930, passed away surrounded by the love of his family.
Franny was predeceased by his beloved wife Marie, with whom he shared 42 wonderful years of marriage. He was blessed a second time in life when he married Stella, his wife of 27 years. He often said he was incredibly lucky to have had two wonderful women to share his life with.
He was the devoted father of Tommy (Mary), Debbie (Kip), Barbara (Bob), Annamarie (Fran), Robert (Diane), and Donna (Chuck).
To his nineteen grandchildren, he was the most incredible Gramps and Pop—each one somehow made to feel as though they were his only one. He was also the proud great-grandfather of 21 of the luckiest children ever to have been blessed with his love.
Franny is survived by his sister Judy (Rich), sister-in-law Evelyn, cousins Dan Iacovone and Pete Certo (Carol) , Lifelong Friend Frank Berry (Nancy) and many nieces, nephews and during the final year of his life
his caretaker Nina. He was predeceased by his mom (Anna), dad (Frank) brother Pat and his sister Catherine (“Reds”).
He lived an extraordinary life and was loved by anyone fortunate enough to meet him. An outstanding athlete, Franny’s greatest passion was baseball. He was legendary throughout the South Jersey leagues and once had a tryout with the Cleveland Indians, and after his playing days ended, he dedicated himself to coaching. For many years he was a beloved coach and Athletic Director at Most Holy Redeemer, where he met his mentor, spiritual advisor and dear friend, Bishop James Schad. He later spent 25 years assisting 6 different Coaches with Gloucester Catholic football, where countless athletes fondly remember “Mr. Ike,” his wonderful warmth, his constant encouragement and pleasant personality, and not to mention his unmatched skill taping ankles.
His contributions were recognized with his induction into the Gloucester County Hall of Fame and the prestigious Dr. Kelly Award for his outstanding service to the South Jersey community and his cherished Gloucester Catholic where all his children and many of his grandchildren attended and worked. Today one the Athletic Fields is named The Francis and Marie Iacovone Field in honor of him and his beautiful wife.
Franny also possessed a beautiful singing voice—his rendition of Al Jolson was said to be better than Jolson himself.
Above all, Franny was a man of deep and unwavering faith. His Catholic religion guided his life, shaped his character, and was the foundation of the kindness and goodness he shared with the world.
His legacy of love, generosity, and joy will live forever in the hearts of those who knew him. If you knew Franny Iacovone, you were truly a better person for it.
Relatives, friends and members of the Gloucester Catholic community are invited to his viewings on Monday evening, November 24th from 4:30 to 9 PM and Tuesday morning, November 25th from 9 to 10 AM at St. Mary’s R.C. Church, 426 Monmouth Street, Gloucester City. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday morning at 10:30 AM in the church. Interment will follow in New St. Mary’s Cemetery, Bellmawr. Both viewings will take place in the church.
In lieu of Flowers please make donations to the Francis and Marie Iacovone Scholarship, c/o Gloucester Catholic HS, 333 Ridgeway Street, Gloucester City, NJ 08030
Condolences and Memories may be shared at www.mccannhealey.com under the obituary of Francis Thomas Iacovone. Funeral Arrangements and Inquiries may be made through: McCann-Healey Funeral Home, Gloucester City. Ph: 856-456-1142
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