Francis Xavier Carden

Francis (Frank) Xavier Carden, PhD, passed away suddenly on March 10, 2026, in Austin, Texas, at the age of 88, after an evening spent doing what he loved most: sharing a meal and conversation with dear friends.

Frank was active, intellectually engaged and full of life until the very end, having just days earlier delighted in a traveling Broadway show with his grandchildren.

Born on March 14, 1937, in Scranton, Pennsylvania, and raised in Newark, New Jersey, Frank’s life was defined by curiosity and a commitment to others. He began his adult life in service as a Catholic priest, dedicating 17 years to his faith and community. In time, he left the priesthood to marry Susan, his beloved wife of 39 years, whose memory remained central in his life long after her passing in 2010.

Frank’s devotion to helping others found a new expression in his academic and professional pursuits. Earning a PhD in psychology, he became a psychologist serving the deaf community, combining intellect with compassion in a career that made a meaningful difference. At the same time, he and Susan built a loving home in Teaneck, New Jersey, where they raised their son, Brian.

A lifelong learner in the truest sense, Frank never stopped seeking, questioning or sharing ideas. As a dedicated member of The Institute for Retired Professionals (IRP) at The New School in New York City, he both attended and taught classes well into his later years. He was equally at home in a lecture hall or a concert hall, an enthusiastic patron of the arts who found joy in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the New York Philharmonic and the New York City Ballet.

In the final chapter of his life, Frank moved to Austin to be closer to his son and grandchildren. There, he quickly became a vibrant presence at The Village at the Triangle independent living community, known for sparking lively conversations on art, literature and music. He continued to fill his days with cultural outings, attending Broadway in Austin, Austin Opera and Ballet Austin performances with friends and family.

Frank is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Brian and Stephanie (Baker) Carden of Austin, Texas; his grandchildren, Jack and Alice Carden of Austin; and his brother-in-law, Richard Heller of New York City.

He was laid to rest on St. Patrick’s Day, March 17, 2026, a fitting tribute to his Irish heritage, beside the love of his life, Susan, at George Washington Memorial.

Frank will be remembered for his intellect, his warmth, his deep humanity and his enduring belief in the power of learning, connection and a life well lived.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Hackensack University Medical Center, 336 Prospect Avenue, Hackensack, NJ 07601.