Francis X. Hesketh

Francis X. Hesketh, 82, of Kearny, passed away on June 16^th at his home in the company of his loving family.  Prior to his retirement in 1996, Mr. Hesketh was employed as a Special Education teacher in the Montclair school system for 25 years having received his Master's Degree in Special Education from Jersey City State College.  He was a member of the New Jersey Education Assn., and the Essex County Teacher’s Assn.  In 2010, he was honored by St. Cecilia’s Parish Holy Name Society as their “Man of the Year.”

Frank’s commitment to his family, his catholic faith, and St. Cecilia’s Church is beyond measure.  Frank was a member of the Parish Council, taught high school CCD, and called Bingo every Friday night in the school auditorium for many years.  He also participated in any volunteer effort when needed.  Frank’s impact on us all is genuine and long-lasting.

No child could have hoped for a better father.  He drove to every cheerleading competition and attended every play, concert, and sports event that involved his children.  As a teacher, Frank had a profound impact on his students, evidenced in the many letters he received and cherished over the years.  Frank was passionate about history, art, literature, and music. He shared his interests with his family with many trips to concerts, museums, and plays in Manhattan.   Annual vacations in LBI or the Catskill Mountains were the highlight of the year for Frank and his family.  He was the most patient, loving, and gentle father.

Frank and Carol married at the age of twenty and had four children by the age of twenty-seven.  Without fail, Frank put his family first, working two jobs for the better part of his life, all while being a great dad and active in his community.  Life was not always easy for Frank, having lost both of his sons, Michael and Frankie.  With faith and grace, Frank rose above his losses, allowing treasured memories to outweigh his sorrow.  Frank’s home was quiet, calm, and filled with laughter and love, always.

Frank is survived by his devoted wife of 62 years, Carol Hesketh (nee Baillie,) his cherished children, Maureen Dean (Joseph), Theresa Halligan (John); his five grandchildren, Bridget and Kathleen Dean; Benjamin and Jack Halligan; and Darcy Hesketh, and his brother, Jack Hesketh.  He was predeceased by his beloved sons, Michael and Francis, Jr.; and his brother Patrick. 

The funeral from the Thiele-Reid Family Funeral Home, Kearny, will be private.  In lieu of flowers, please send donations to St. Cecilia’s Church, Kearny, 120 Kearny Avenue, Kearny NJ 07032 or the charity of your choice.

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