Francis J. Foley

Francis John Foley, age 93, passed away on November 17 while visiting with family in Chester County, Pennsylvania. Frank, a lifelong resident of Gardner, was born on October 10, 1932, to the late Christopher and Kathleen Foley. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and brother.

Frank graduated from Gardner High School in 1951 and dedicated 25 years of service to General Electric, where he worked as a machinist and toolmaker. A proud veteran, he served admirably in the US Army. His military service included extended time in Korea during the Korean War, demonstrating a commitment to his country that continued throughout his life.

Frank was a man of many interests, including woodworking, where he crafted heirloom gems for his grandchildren, whirligigs, and beautifully turned wood bowls and vases. He loved music (which he passed on to the next generation), enjoyed playing guitar and harmonica, making puzzles, gardening and caring for his many plants, and engaging his love of astronomy. His creative spirit was evident in all he did and remains an inspiration to those who knew him.

A lifelong member of the VFW Post 905, Frank also was a longtime member of Sacred Heart of Jesus Church in Gardner, where he participated actively until its closure. He served on the Church’s St. Vincent DePaul board and as a minister of the Eucharist at the former Gardner Manor Nursing Home.

Frank's life was marked by kindness, generosity, love of family and friends, a sharp wit, and a vibrant smile and spirit that will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

He is survived by his high school sweetheart and wife of 70 years, Lorraine. He also leaves his son Michael and wife Deborah, of Brooksville, FL; his daughter Jane and husband Ron, of Phoenixville, PA; and his daughter Nancy and husband Marc, of Gardner; five grandsons: David (Nat), Christopher (Cyndi), Jonathan (Sungmin), Michael (Chelsea), and Stephen, and his step-grandson Daniel (Bethany); and 10 great-grandchildren.

He is also survived by a sister, Christine Demarais, two sisters-in-law, Catherine Foley and Norma Marion, and many nieces and nephews. Frank was preceded in death by his parents, his twin sister Anna (Cote) Babson, his siblings Martin Foley and Patricia Dupre-Corley, and his brother-in-law Richard Marion and nephew Anthony Marion.

The family will hold a burial service followed by a celebration of life on April 18, 2026, at Mack Family Funeral Homes, 105 Central St., Gardner, MA, 01440. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Frank’s memory to Montachusett Veterans Outreach Center, 268 Central St., Gardner, MA 01440.