Joseph Henry DeFranco

Joseph Henry DeFranco, 78, of Franklinton, NC, formerly of Massena, NY, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 11, 2025, at the Hock Family Pavilion in Durham, NC, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Ogdensburg, NY, Joe was the son of the late Phillip and Lucille Corrice DeFranco. A dedicated worker and community servant, he retired after 32 years with Reynolds Metals Company in Massena, NY, where he held numerous positions over the course of his career. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Joe was deeply committed to his community, serving as both a traveling notary and town assessor.

Joe’s true passion was giving back, particularly through youth sports. A lifelong athlete and enthusiastic coach, he dedicated countless hours supporting youth teams in baseball, hockey, football, basketball, and softball, not just for the love of the game, but for the joy of uplifting young people in the town he called home.

In his leisure time, Joe found peace riding his motorcycle through the North Country and boating on the St. Lawrence River, two of his favorite pastimes. But above all else, his greatest joy was being a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. His unwavering loyalty, strength, and compassion defined him, and his family was his proudest legacy.

Joe is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Sandra White DeFranco; his children: Laura DeFranco (Mike Wilkerson) of Raleigh, NC; Tony DeFranco (Jackie Avery) of Cortland, NY; and Dan DeFranco (Hoa Tran) of Los Angeles, CA; six grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; his brother, Richard DeFranco (Chris Phillips) of Avondale, AZ; and his sister, Donna King of Ogdensburg, NY. He was predeceased by his brother, Theodore DeFranco.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Shriners Hospitals for Children, or a local animal shelter such as the Massena Humane Society, SPCA of Wake County, NC, or Franklin County, NC Animal Shelter.

Arrangements by Clancy Strickland Wheeler Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 1051 Durham Road, Wake Forest, NC 27587. 919-556-7400