Cover photo for Francis J. "Frank" Hanifin's Obituary
Francis J. "Frank" Hanifin Profile Photo
1932 Francis 2021

Francis J. "Frank" Hanifin

September 24, 1932 — May 29, 2021

Francis J. "Frank" Hanifin, age 88, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 29, 2021 surrounded by his loving family.  Born in his family's home in Jamaica Plain on September 24, 1932, he was the son of Irish immigrants, John and Mary (McManus) Hanifin.  He was raised in Jamaica Plain, where he graduated from Boston English High School with the Class of 1950.  Following his graduation, Frank enlisted in the United States Army, proudly serving his country during the Korean War.  He was stationed with the 2nd Infantry Division, earning the Presidential Unit Citation for his service in Korea.  Frank was honorably discharged in December of 1954, having earned the rank of Staff Sergeant.  Frank loved serving his country and loved being an American.
 
While in high school, Frank began his career with First National Supermarkets, working as a stock clerk.  Upon his return home from the Army, Frank picked up right where he left off at First National and was later promoted to Grocery Manager and was then elevated to the position of District Manager.
 
Frank married his beloved wife, Sarah A. "Sally" McNeil, on June 23, 1962 in Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Jamaica Plain.  The young couple initially made their home in Roslindale before settling in East Walpole in 1971, where they raised their family. 
 
As Frank's family grew, his career continued to flourish.  He was promoted to Zone Manager and later elevated to Director of Store Operations in Boston for First National Supermarkets. In 1980, Frank took a position with Roche Brother's Supermarkets managing the Westwood store for four years, after which he was promoted to the Wellesley headquarters taking the position of training coordinator.  Following the reorganization of the Roche Brother's Supermarkets in 1987, Frank was elevated to Director of Sales and Marketing, a role he served in until his retirement in 1999.  His retirement from Roche Brother's Supermarkets did not mark the end of Frank's working career, as he was approached by Trucchi's Supermarkets, where he worked as a consultant part-time until his official retirement in 2011.
 
Throughout his life, Frank was an avid golfer, who looked forward to hitting the links with his friends at his favorite course, Heather Hill in Plainville.  He also loved to travel, taking several trips to his parent's home country of Ireland, as well as many trips around the world with his wife, Sally.  Back at home, Frank could be found in his yard caring for his grass, flower gardens and his meticulously maintained pool.  As a dedicated family man, nothing made Frank happier than spending time with his wife, children, and grandchildren.  He looked forward to hosting family cookouts in his backyard.  He would often take out his accordion to entertain his guests.  Frank was always seen sipping his favorite drink, a Manhattan, at family gatherings.  He also enjoyed putting on music at cookouts, most of all he loved John Denver.
 
Beloved husband of the late Sarah "Sally" A. (McNeil) Hanifin.
Loving father of Mary Beth Hanifin of Foxborough, Francis J. "Frank" Hanifin Jr. and his wife, Shannon, of Attleboro, Linda A. Aucoin and her husband, Jack, of Attleboro, and Robert L. Hanifin and his wife, Christine, of Wrentham.
Cherished grandfather of Eric Schofield, Colleen Schofield, Brian Hanifin, Christopher Hanifin, Philip Hanifin, Jake Aucoin and his wife, Stephanie, and Patrick Aucoin.
Brother of Jimmy Hanifin of Jamaica Plain, the late John Maloney, the late Thomas Maloney, the late Robert Maloney, and the late Mary Kenney.
Also survived by many nieces and nephews.
 
Frank had many pets over the years which he enjoyed.  He especially loved his long haired cat, Fluffy, who passed away last year.
 
Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend Frank's Life Celebration on Monday, June 7, 2021 from 4 to 8 PM in the James H. Delaney & Son Funeral Home, 48 Common Street, Walpole.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Saint Mary's Church, 176 Washington Street, East Walpole on Tuesday, June 8, 2021 at 10:30 AM.  Interment will follow in Saint Francis Cemetery in Walpole.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Special Olympics of Massachusetts, 512 Forest Street, Marlborough, MA 01752 or at https://www.specialolympicsma.org/
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Francis J. "Frank" Hanifin, please visit our flower store.

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