Frank Dominick Schilleci Sr.

Frank Dominick Schilleci Sr. passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on Friday, October 24, 2025, at 4:39 in the morning. He was 78 years old. He faced every challenge in life with quiet strength, unwavering faith, and a heart full of gratitude. He never complained, never asked for anything, and always put others before himself.

Frank was born and raised in New Orleans and lived in Chalmette for most of his life until Hurricane Katrina took his home in 2005. Even after losing everything, he never lost his faith. He moved to River Ridge to be near family, and it was there that God brought Diane Holmberg into his life. They met after Sunday Mass at St. Matthew the Apostle Church, where love soon followed, and they were married at the same church less than a year later.

Frank proudly served six years in the Louisiana Air National Guard, where he learned discipline, teamwork, and pride in service—values he carried through his entire life.

He was a kind and humble man, always ready to lend a hand, fix what was broken, or brighten someone’s day. He believed in doing good quietly, without needing to be seen. He often said, “Be a good person, not just a nice person,” and “The only work that really matters is the work no one sees—it shows who you really are.” He reminded us to “Leave people and places better than you found them, stay humble and don’t forget where you come from.” Those weren’t just words to him—they were how he lived every single day. After graduating from Francis T. Nicholls High School, he began his career with L&N Railroad (later CSX) as a car repairman. It was the perfect job for a man who could fix anything and loved working with his hands. Whether it was a piece of machinery or someone’s bad day, Frank somehow always knew how to make things right again.

He was the son of the late Dominick Louis Schillace and Katie Tina Camino Schillace. His mother passed away when he was just 18 months old, and the family who helped raise him meant the world to him. He was also preceded in death by his baby sister Schilleci and brother, Angelo Schillage, whom he loved dearly.

He is survived by his loving wife of 18 years, Diane Holmberg Schilleci; his children Frank Dominick Schilleci Jr. and Tina Schilleci Marchand (Todd); and stepsons John and James Moeller (Rachel). He was “Granddad” to Ava Schilleci, Cheyenne Schilleci, Kassidy Holden (Daniel), TJ Marchand, Hunter Marchand, and Ryan Moeller; and “Great Granddad” to Levi and Avery Holden. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends who will never forget his gentle spirit and quiet wisdom.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Funeral Mass at St. Matthew the Apostle Church, 10021 Jefferson Highway, River Ridge, on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at 1:00 p.m., with visitation beginning at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Jefferson Memorial Gardens, 11316 River Road, St. Rose.

Frank lived his life the right way—with faith, humility, and love. He was a devoted Catholic, a proud veteran, a loyal friend, and the best kind of husband, father, and Granddad. His lessons will stay with us forever: to be good, stay humble, and help others whenever you can. Though we will miss him deeply, we know he’s home now—at peace, in God’s hands, and reunited with those he loved.

Condolences may be shared online at www.leitzeaganfuneralhome.com

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research at https://www.michaeljfox.org/.