Francis L. Messick

May 31, 1947 - July 23, 2021

Our family lost a cherished gentleman, Francis L. Messick, that we lovingly called Franny, Dad, Pop, or Poppy. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, father-in-law, son-in-law, uncle, cousin and friend. Franny passed away July 23, 2021 at his home, at the age of 74, surrounded with love by his immediate family. Franny was born in Delaware County, Pennsylvania on May 31, 1947 to the late I. Francis and Thelma Messick. He was the eldest of three children. His early years were lived in Stanton, Delaware where he met his wife, Darlene Reed. They both graduated from Dickinson High School. Shortly after graduation, they married and resided in Newark, Delaware eventually settling in Townsend, Delaware. Franny is survived by his wife of 54 years, Darlene; two children, daughter Trina and her husband, Mark Yeager of Bear, Delaware; son, Darin Messick and his wife, Danielle of Forest Hill, Maryland; four grandchildren, Brandon and Ashley Yeager and Isabella and Emily Messick; brother, Barry (Sandy) Messick; sister, Robin (Alan) Ladd; and nieces and nephews. Franny will be remembered for his quick wit and sense of humor. He enjoyed getaways and anniversary trips, fishing, gardening, a perfectly manicured lawn, his Jeep Wrangler, and coffee – lots and lots of coffee. Franny loved his family most of all! He could often be found at his children’s homes helping with projects or hanging out, or at his grandchildren’s sporting events or school functions – he was a cherished constant in our lives. A viewing will be held on Tuesday, August 3, 2021 from 9:30 to 11 AM at Love of Christ Church, 2157 Bear Corbitt Road, Bear, DE 19701 where a service will be held at 11 AM. Interment will follow at All Saints Cemetery in Wilmington. His family wishes to thank Delaware Hospice who supported Franny and the family in his last days. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Delaware Hospice, 911 South DuPont Highway, Dover, DE 1990 For directions or to send an online condolence visit www.stranofeeley.com Strano & Feeley Family Funeral Home 302-731-5459