Frank A. Lo Piccolo

If a man is measured by the size of his heart and the reach of his generosity, then we have truly lost a giant.

Frank Anthony Lo Piccolo, a lifelong resident of Gravesend, Brooklyn, passed away, leaving behind a community of family, friends, neighbors, and countless young athletes whose lives were forever enriched by his kindness, generosity, and guidance.

Frank built a distinguished career in the reinsurance industry at Phoenix Re, where he dedicated more than five decades of service. Beginning shortly after high school, he earned the respect of colleagues through his hard work, integrity, and perseverance, ultimately rising through the ranks to the position of Vice President.

While his professional accomplishments were significant, Frank's true legacy was found in his unwavering commitment to his community. For more than 50 years, he devoted himself to Our Lady of Grace Parish and the Our Lady of Grace Athletic Association, better known to generations of Brooklyn families as the Gil Hodges Little League. Over the decades, he served in nearly every capacity imaginable, including umpire, coach, Treasurer, Registrar, Director of Player Personnel, President, Board Member, and Special Assistant to the President.

His dedication to youth baseball extended far beyond Gravesend. Frank served as President of the Marine Park League, President of the Metropolitan Baseball League, Treasurer and later President of the Federation Baseball League, and Regional Director of PONY Baseball. His knowledge, leadership, and willingness to help others made him a respected figure throughout New York City's baseball community and beyond.

To Frank, baseball was never just a game. It was an opportunity to teach character, build confidence, and give every child a place to belong. One former player remembered that when others saw the worst in him, Frank saw the best. He always made time, offered encouragement, covered a snack stand tab when needed, and quietly helped children and families without ever seeking recognition. Many who passed through the leagues he served credit Frank with helping shape the people they became.

Frank was equally devoted to his faith and his neighborhood. A lifelong parishioner of Our Lady of Grace and a respected member of the Gravesend community, he was also active in the Republican Party and civic affairs. Frank is a 60 year member of the Samuel Cardinal Stritch Knights of Columbus #4661, obtaining status of Honorary Life Member. No matter the setting, he led with kindness, humility, and an abiding belief in helping others.

Those who knew Frank will remember his warm smile, quick humor, generous spirit, and the way he made everyone feel valued.

While many knew Frank through baseball, church, and community service, those closest to him knew the man behind those accomplishments—a devoted brother and uncle whose love for his family was unwavering. He showed that love not through grand gestures, but through a lifetime of showing up, helping out, and always being there when he was needed.

He gave freely of his time, his wisdom, and his heart, never expecting anything in return. His compassion touched countless lives, and his influence will continue to be felt for generations.

Frank was predeceased by his parents, Frank Lo Piccolo and Rose Pecoraro Lo Piccolo; his sister-in-law, Polly Bush Lo Piccolo; and his great-nephew, Leonardo Mathewson Ring.

He is survived by his brother, Nicholas William Lo Piccolo; his nieces, Patricia Lo Piccolo and Linda Ring and her husband, David Ring; his nephews, James Lo Piccolo and his wife, Lisa, and Michael Lo Piccolo and his wife, Emily Bright; his great-nephews and great-nieces, Max, Teo, Ruby, Franky, Marie, Olivia, and Cecily; his godson, Frank La Sorsa; and many extended family members, dear friends, former players, coaches, and community members whose lives were enriched by knowing him.

Frank often worked quietly behind the scenes, asking for no recognition and expecting no reward. Yet his impact was immeasurable. His legacy lives on in every ballplayer he encouraged, every family he helped, every friend he supported, and every act of kindness inspired by his example.

There will never be another like Frank Lo Piccolo. Gravesend has lost one of its own, but his generosity, love, and spirit will endure in the community he cherished and helped build.

Visitation will be held at Cusimano & Russo Funeral Home, 2005 W 6th St, Brooklyn, New York 11223, on June 16, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm, and again on June 17, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

A Funeral Mass will take place at Our Lady of Grace Roman Catholic Church, 430 Ave W, Brooklyn, New York 11223, on June 18, 2026, from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm.

Entombment will follow at Cemetery of the Resurrection, 361 Sharrott Ave, Staten Island, New York 10309, on June 18, 2026, from 1:30 pm to 2:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations are respectfully requested in Frank's memory to the OLGAA/GHLL organization.

Our Lady of Grace Athletic Association, 169 Bay 44 Street, Brooklyn, NY 11214