Frank H. DiCristina Jr.

Honest, faithful, loving, self-disciplined and generous are characteristics describing Frank H. DiCristina, Jr. who passed away on January 24, 2015. Born in Atlanta, GA on September 8, 1920, he was the son of Pauline Cefalu and Frank DiCristina. A man rich in character and personality, Frank was extremely proud of his family and their Italian heritage, his Catholic faith, and his military service. His family was his most valued treasure, and he lived by the motto "tutta la famiglia"(all family). "Paw Paw" cherished celebrating with family and friends on holidays and special occasions. In 2002 accompanied by his eldest grandson, Frank spent 3 months in Sicily, tracing his ancestry and visiting relatives. He graduated Boy's High in1938 and the University of Georgia Evening College. A veteran of World War II, Frank's army career both active and reserve spanned 28 years., He commanded an artillery battery in Europe and was awarded the Bronze Star. After the war, Frank, fondly known as Mr. D, had a 41 year management career with Sears, Roebuck and Co. in Atlanta, Fayetteville, NC and several other locations. Frank grew up in Atlanta in the Catholic Italian community, and that love of heritage and faith followed him throughout his life. While in Fayetteville, he was very involved in the Sons of Italy and was recognized for numerous achievements. One of Frank's proudest moments was portraying Christopher Columbus on the Santa Maria float which he designed and help build. Being a faithful Catholic, Frank was always active in parish life. Most recently, his devotion to St. Jude parish prompted him to distribute over 2000 St. Jude coins to all he met. Frank was preceded in death by his loving wife of 55 years, Ines Fornara DiCristina. Survivors include his sister, Theresa Wicklin(Jerry) of Maitland, FL, daughter, Elaine Waidelich (Bill), sons, Frank DiCristina, III (Brenda), Robert DiCristina, (Lynn),all of Atlanta, John Michael DiCristina of Mt. Dora, FL. Other survivors include his cherished companion, Margaret Rogers Branch of Fayetteville, GA, 9 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. The family will receive friends on Thursday, January 29, 2015 at H. M. Patterson & Son, Arlington Chapel, 173 Allen Rd., Ne, Sandy Springs, GA 30328 from 6:00 -8:00PM with a rosary at 7:30. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Jude the Apostle Catholic Church, 7171 Glenridge Dr. NE on Friday, January 30, 2015 at 11:00 AM followed by a reception. Interment will follow at Westview Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, PO Box 1893, Memphis, TN38101 or St. Vincent dePaul %St. Jude the Apostle Catholic Church, 7171 Glenridge Dr. Sandy Springs, GA 30328.