Grafton – Frank James Parella, Jr., 80, passed away peacefully at home December 12, 2023. Frank was born in Worcester and married his high school sweetheart Jean (Cote), they were married for 59 years.
Frank graduated from Millbury Memorial High School and earned his Associate’s degree from Leicester Junior College. He was the Service Manager at AmeriPride in Worcester retiring after 39 years of service. Frank discovered quickly that retirement did not suit him and he went on to work 15 more years at IBA before leaving due to an illness this past March.
He was a member of St. James Parish in South Grafton and a volunteer at St. James Outreach program. He was a tremendous athlete and sports enthusiast. He played Baseball, Football and Basketball but the baseball diamond was where he truly excelled. His stellar play led to Hall of Fame designations at Millbury High School, Leicester Junior College and USA New England Triple Softball in 1990. He also bowled in several leagues, played golf and hit holes in one twice and was a player in The Queen and her Court professional softball team and was the only player that managed to get a hit against their pitcher.
Frank’s greatest joy was the pride he had in his family; his loving wife Jean, his children Gayle Parella and her fiancé Steven Hertz and Paula Paige and her husband Peter, his sister Jeanne Marshall and her husband Tom, his grandchildren Taylor, Caitlyn and her husband Kristian, Andre, Anthony, Abby, Nicole, Olivia, Alyssa, and Jesse.
He never missed a game or school event that his grandchildren were playing or participating in. He also loved to travel the world with his wife Jean as they took several memorable trips, especially to the National Parks in the United States.
Around South Grafton Frank was known and loved for his fun loving nature, his generosity and loyalty to family and friends. He had a wide circle of friends and people that loved him and will be greatly missed.
He was predeceased by his son Kevin Parella, his sister Arlene Army and brother Richard Parella.
In accordance with his wishes there will be no services at this time.
Please honor Frank with an act of kindness and/or a donation to the charity of your choice.
Roney Funeral Home of North Grafton assisted with arrangements.
