Obituary: Francis Patrick Fay Jr.

Francis Patrick Fay Jr. 

Francis Patrick (“Frank”) Fay Jr., of Hull, died peacefully on Nov. 13, doing what he loved most – enjoying a nice nap. 

Born and raised a city kid of seven to Frank and Agnes in Dorchester, he married Alice R. Hoppe, of Charlestown, and relocated to Nantasket Beach to start his family.

Called by the appeal of the ocean, Frank spent his life as a seafarer, both professionally and personally. He traveled the world as a Merchant Marine during and after the Korean War and all over the eastern seaboard as an engineer dredging and improving harbors and beaches. When back in port, he ran an auto salvage business and tinkered on his own boats. Always the family man, he would be sure to clean the grease from his hands before he threatened to smack you with them for “being a wise guy.” 

As tough as Frank was on the outside, his often worn and tanned skin belied his soft interior. Despite his many, many jokes and teasing, he would give his time and his last dime to help a friend in need. 

A social butterfly, he loved to tend bar at the Nantasket Beach Saltwater Club, spend time “BS’ing” and playing cards with his closest friends, and trying his luck during casino trips; he truly thrived through those meaningful exchanges. His energy will be sorely missed.

Frank was preceded in death by his wife of 39 years, Alice, his son, John T. Fay Sr., and siblings Jack, Terry, Tom, Claire, and Chuck. He is survived by his sister, Catherine Tompkins, of Abington; and his children, Michael K. Fay, of Lebanon, Ohio; Catherine A. Fay, of Brockton; and Francis P. Fay III, of Weymouth. He was grandfather to John T. Fay Jr., of Quincy; Crystal A. Fay, of Brockton; Donna M. Fay, of Quincy; Lance M. Fay, of Cartersville, Ga.; and Samantha and Caitlin Fay, of Weymouth. He was great-grandfather to Alyssa, Cheyanne, Ava, Nicholas, Anna, and Cameron. 

Services have been held. The family requests those who wish to express sympathy to consider making a donation in Frank’s name to the Nantasket Beach Saltwater Club, 3 Fitzpatrick Way, Hull, MA 02045. 

See www.Keohane.com for online condolences.