Francesco Lopiccolo

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Francesco “Franco” Lopiccolo, a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and a quiet soul with a sharp wit and a heart full of humor. He passed away peacefully of natural causes at the age of 79.

Franco was born on March 13, 1946, in Carini, Sicily, to the late Salvatore and Anna Lopiccolo. He was preceded in death by his brothers-in-law, Salvatore Lamarca and Joseph “Joe” Buffa.

Franco is survived by his beloved wife, Mimma; their two devoted sons, Salvatore (Laura) and Jerry (Emily); and his adoring grandchildren, Anthony, Rosaria, MacKenzie, Skylar, Francesca, and Amelia. He also leaves behind his loving sister, Rosaria Lamarca; sister-in-law, Pamela Buffa; sister-in-law, Anna Bazzani (Robert); and brother-in-law, Mario Buffa (Jessica), as well as a large, loving extended family of nieces and nephews.

For over 12 years, Franco worked as a train conductor in Palermo, Sicily, a profession that highlighted his quiet precision and calm demeanor. On July 4, 1976, he bravely journeyed to the United States, chasing new dreams with the same steady resolve that defined his life. Just a year later, in 1977, he married the love of his life, Giroloma “Mimma” Buffa Lopiccolo, in Gloucester, Virginia. Together, they built a beautiful life in Hampton, Virginia, centered on family, food, and hard work.

Franco worked alongside his family at the beloved Anna’s Pizza in Buckroe, a community cornerstone that became his second home. A true workaholic, Franco took pride in every task at the restaurant. Even after retiring 17 years ago, he never strayed far from the kitchen at Mama Rosa’s in Hampton, VA, continuing to bake his famous bread—a signature dish cherished by so many.

He held a quiet ritual: sitting in the corner of the restaurant, his back to the wall, always facing the door, as if still standing watch over the place he loved. It was in that quiet spot that many came to appreciate his dry humor, subtle smile, and calming presence.

A true Italian through and through, he loved to cook, loved to eat, and never went a day without pasta. Franco was a man of few words, but each one carried weight. His sharp wit, quiet strength, and unwavering dedication to his family and work will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

A visitation will take place on Sunday September 14, 2025 from 4-6 PM at Parklawn Wood Funeral Home, located at 2551 N. Armistead Ave, Hampton VA 23666. A Funeral Mass will take place on Monday September 15, 2025 at 11:00 AM at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Hampton, followed immediately by a committal service at Parklawn Wood Memorial Park.