Francis J. Dragone

Seneca Falls/Savannah, NY/Auburn - Francis J. (Frank) Dragone, 75, passed away peacefully at Auburn Community Hospital on December 8, 2023 after a brief illness. A private funeral Mass was held at St. Patrick's Church, Seneca Falls. Frank was laid to rest at St. Columbkille Cemetery. Memorial contributions can be made to: National Alliance on Mental Illness (by check) at P.O. Box 49104, Baltimore, Md. 21297 or online at nami.org/donate.

Frank was born in Seneca Falls, the son of the late John A. and Mary (Zone) Dragone. In 1966, he left high school as a result of mental health challenges. After being out of school for a significant time due to his illness, he demonstrated great courage by returning to a school environment at a time when those with his type of disability were not treated with compassion. Yet, Frank always responded with nothing but kindness and gentleness, qualities he demonstrated throughout his lifetime. With great perseverance, he became a proud graduate of Mynderse Academy in 1968, two years after he was originally scheduled to graduate.

Special thanks to the Baker Family Care Home of Savannah, New York. Members of the Baker family - Fred and Kristine, and their children Claire, Freddy, Brandon, Zachary and Alex - took wonderful care of Frank's special needs for 23 years, and treated him as a member of their own family. They are appreciated more than words can express.

We would also like to extend our appreciation to the staff at Finger Lakes Center for Living, for the excellent care they provided for the past 19 months; and to the staff at Auburn Community Hospital during his recent illness.

Frank is survived by his sister Joyce of Auburn; brother John (Kathy) of Seneca Falls; nephews Christopher (Keisha) Dragone and Timothy (Jen) Dragone; niece Beth (Christian) Gandolfo; and great nieces and nephews Jack, Vivienne, Charlie, Emory and Nicholas.

In addition to his parents, Frank was predeceased by several uncles, aunts and cousins.