Francesco "Frank" Ferrara

Francesco (Frank) Ferrara, a man of quiet strength, purposeful actions, and a beautiful smile, peacefully passed away on April 21, 2026, with his beloved wife, Teresa Ferrara (Mancini), by his side. Their life together was a beautiful testament to a deep, inseparable, and loving partnership.

Born in Corato, Italy, Frank carried the warmth and cultural richness of his homeland throughout his life. His journey from Corato to Ithaca, NY, was marked by a commitment to leaving a lasting impact. Serving honorably in the US Army during the Korean War as a decorated Sergeant-Master Mechanic, Frank honed the technical and problem-solving skills that defined his later work, captured in Frank's mantra, "If it can't be done, I can do it!" Frank's professional life reflected his tireless work ethic. Starting at Mancini & Sons, his dedication led him to become the owner of Mancini-Ferrara & Sons, where he cultivated a legacy of hard work, quality craftsmanship, and family unity.

Frank found joy in his family, tending to his garden, and cooking. He expressed his love through Italian cuisine, delighting in preparing traditional meals, especially his special lasagna and sauce, for family and friends. The garden and kitchen were extensions of his life's philosophy: acts of intention, patience, and sharing his heritage.

Believing life was a gift to be lived with purpose, Frank and Teresa navigated life's joys and challenges as one, always acting, thinking, and speaking with accountability. They were truly "Two Peas in a Pod" for over 71 years.

Frank, known for his thoughtful nature and strong sense of right and wrong, was a beloved family member and trusted community figure. Always busy, he refined recipes, ran the family business, and helped those in need. Frank's legacy of mindfulness and believing every word and action matters will live on.

Frank was predeceased by his beloved parents, Gaetano and Salvatora, and brothers Guiseppe (Pepino), Antonio (Tonino), and Luigi, all of Corato, Italy. Survived by his loving wife Teresa, brother Savino (Patricia) of Ithaca, NY, brother Felice (Luisa) and sisters Teresa and Benedetta (Tina) of Corato, Italy, and children: Maryann Barry (Mark), Debi Benson (Rich), Susie Ferrara, Frank Ferrara Jr. (Lucy), and Joe Ferrara (Terise), 10 grandchildren, and 15 great-grandchildren.

We'll celebrate Frank's life and legacy with a Mass of Christian Burial on Wednesday, April 29, at 10:00 am at Immaculate Conception Church. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Immaculate Conception Church.