Anthony DeFranco, devoted to family

Anthony DeFranco, 75, of Rehoboth Beach, passed away Tuesday, March 22, 2022, at his home.  He was born July 21, 1946, in Paterson, N.J., son of the late Sam and Rose DeFranco.

Mr. DeFranco earned his bachelor’s degree in political science from Rutgers University and his master’s degree from the University of Oklahoma.  Throughout his life, he remained an active member of the Rutgers Alumni and an avid fan of all Rutgers sports.

Mr. DeFranco built a lifelong career with the city of Paterson, retiring as director of planning and zoning, after 40 dedicated years.  He had many interests and hobbies, including collecting baseball cards and antique cars and surfing eBay.  Mr. DeFranco enjoyed all that coastal living had to offer, especially relaxing at the beach.  He loved to travel, experiencing as many different locales as possible. 

Above all, Mr. DeFranco cherished time with those he held most dear.  He was a loving and devoted father, grandfather, brother, and friend.  Loved by many, he will be deeply missed by all who had the good fortune to know him.

Mr. DeFranco is survived by his daughter, Rosalie Hom (Donald) of Milton and her mother, Elizabeth DeFranco of Kinnelon, N.J.; his granddaughter, Samantha of Milton; his sisters: Lucille Harrison (Robert) of Wayne, N.J. and Rose Marie Vivace (Rosario) of Houston, Texas; and his dear friend, Susan Rivers of Rehoboth Beach.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m., Wednesday, March 30, at St. Edmond Catholic Church, 409 King Charles Ave., Rehoboth Beach, where friends may call beginning at 10 a.m. Interment will be private.

An additional viewing will be held the night prior, March 29, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., at Parsell Funeral Homes and Crematorium, Atkins-Lodge Chapel, 16961 Kings Hwy., Lewes.

Mask wearing is required and social distancing must be observed by all service attendees and participants.

Visit Mr. DeFranco’s Life Memorial webpage and sign his virtual guestbook at parsellfuneralhomes.com.