Alfred was a quiet and reserved man who appreciated peace, simple pleasures, and time spent with the people closest to him. He especially enjoyed sitting on the front porch, feeling the breeze, and sharing pizza with his friends.
A man of many interests, Alfred loved being on the water and spent countless hours shrimping, crabbing, and fishing. Over the years, he owned several boats. He was also a pilot and once owned his own airplane. Alfred had a lifelong appreciation for automobiles—especially convertibles, earning him the distinction of being a true “ragtop man.” Among the classic cars he owned a beloved 1947 Ford.
Alfred enjoyed traveling and had the opportunity to visit destinations throughout the United States and abroad, including China and Mexico. One of his most memorable experiences was being in Vatican City on April 27, 2014, for the historic canonization of Pope John XXIII and Pope John Paul II, presided over by Pope Francis. He also took great pleasure in good Italian food and the companionship of family and friends.
In addition to his parents, Alfred was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Rose Vitale DeFranco.
He leaves to cherish his memory five daughters, Christine DeFranco of Jekyll Island, Georgia, Denise Rhodes of Coram, New York, Donna Lennon-DeFranco of Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania, Diana Brown of Lake Harmony, Pennsylvania, and Victoria Izzo of Port Charlotte, Florida; one son, Joseph DeFranco of Brunswick, Georgia; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.
Visitation will be held at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 10, 2026, at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Brunswick, followed by the Funeral Mass at 10:00 a.m. Interment will immediately follow at Palmetto Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests that memorial contributions be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in Alfred’s memory.
