Frank Mellace

Frank Mellace, 93, of Rome, New York, passed away peacefully at home after a brief illness. He was born on October 6, 1932, in Squillace, Italy, to Antonio and Anna Mellace.

On November 8, 1953, Frank married the love of his life, Raffaela Mungo. They shared 68 devoted years of marriage until her passing on September 18, 2021. Together, they immigrated to the United States in 1962 with their three young children and later welcomed four more. They made their home in Rome, New York, building a life grounded in faith, family, and hard work, and proudly became naturalized citizens in 1974.

In 1972, Frank and Raffaela opened Mellace's Produce in Rome, New York, an endeavor they operated side-by-side until 1994. Ever dedicated and industrious, Frank later relocated the business to Boonville. Frank loved the Boonville community, and they likewise held him in high regard because of his kindness, generosity, and constant goodwill. His compassion and good humor - he was often heard whistling a cheerful tune - made each visit to his store memorable, and his customers often left with a little something extra free of charge given from his heart. His beautiful flowers in the spring, bright pumpkins in the fall, and handmade Christmas wreaths were local favorites. His work was his passion, and it sustained and fulfilled him throughout his life. So, it was not surprising that he continued to work full-time at the store right up until the time of his death.

Frank was a man of many talents. He was a gifted singer with a rich voice reminiscent of Dean Martin. He loved to make wine, and one year won a first prize blue ribbon at the NY State Fair. He was an avid fisherman and hunter, and a passionate car enthusiast who collected many antique vehicles through the years which he took great pride in driving and displaying. Frank was also an exceptional storyteller. He could captivate a room and fill it with laughter sharing stories from his life over a glass of homemade wine, or a plate of Raffaela's delicious food.

Frank cherished his family deeply, and he would quietly express his love through simple, yet thoughtful acts like secretly leaving flowers or fresh produce on his children's doorsteps in the early morning hours. Although Frank's formal education ended around the eighth grade, he instilled in his children the importance of education. hard work, and perseverance. All of them went on to earn advanced degrees or become successful business owners-accomplishments that filled him with immense pride.

Frank was predeceased by his parents; his beloved wife, Raffaela; a sister; Anna Commodaro, a brother, Anthony "Toto" Mellace, his sister-in-law, Concetta (Gregory) Griffo, his daughter in law, Brenda Mellace; and a beloved nephew, Mattia Mellace.

He is survived by a brother, Agazio (Kati) Mellace; a sister, Carmen (Gabrielle) Mangione; his seven children, Fr. Anthony Mellace of Curitiba, Brazil; Anna M. (Joseph) Pasqualetti of Rome, Angela (Edward) Curry of Spring Hill, TN, Frank (Wendy) Mellace Jr. of Rome, Gino (Joelle) Mellace of Rome, Joseph (Amy) Mellace of Rome, and Michael (Rebecca) Mellace of Rome. He is also survived by his twenty-four grandchildren: Gerald (Renee) Pasqualetti, Melissa (Michael) Servello, Joseph Pasqualetti, III, Kathleen (Chase) Jennings, Kristin (Willis) Somervell, Joseph (Kristen) Curry, Jennifer (Alessandro Franchi) Mellace, Frank (Molly) Mellace, Michael Mellace, Anna (Twinadri) Anggaputra, Olivia (Steven) Honeck, Taylor (Adam) Chmielewski, Nicholas Urtz, Gino Mellace, Nickolas Mellace, Joseph Mellace Jr., Sophia Mellace, Andrew Mellace, Isaiah Mellace, Amanuel Mellace, Noah Mellace, and Franceska, Michael, and Mark; as well as twenty-two great-grandchildren, and several nephews all of whom will carry forward his legacy of love, generosity, and joy.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to Frank's special friend, Ruth Mortis, whose kindness, loyalty, and dedication meant so much to him. After the passing of his wife, Ruth provided companionship and support, helping to care for Frank and assisting with his business.

Frank will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the many members of the Rome and Boonville communities whose lives he touched.

Family and friends are invited to call at Barry Funeral Home, 807 W. Chestnut Street, Rome on Monday, January 19, 2026, between the hours of 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held, Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Peter's Church in Rome, NY.

In lieu of flowers, donation to the Abraham House may be made in Frank's name.

Please offer online condolences at:www.barryfuneralhome.com.