In loving memory of Murry DeFranco, who passed away peacefully on May 30, 2026, at the age of 88. Murry was born a Valentines baby on February 14, 1938, in Niagara Falls, NY at the original St. Mary’shospital and lived his final days in Lewiston. The son of Russell and Constance (DeMartino) DeFranco who gave him the birth name of Marion DeFranco.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Angela Marcheschi, whom he married on March 10, 1962, at St. Joseph church in Niagara Falls, NY. Murry is also survived by his children, Lisa (Michael) Labushesky, Russell (Laree) DeFranco, Lydia Clark, and Claudia DeFranco; his grandchildren, Joseph (Olivia) Labushesky, Christopher (Caroline) Labushesky, Daniel DeFranco, Deana DeFranco, Nicholas DeMartino, Giana Clark, Anthony Clark, and Kinsey Clark; his great-grandchildren, Matthew Clark and Siena Labushesky; his sister Marie (Marotta) Jemiolo, several nieces, nephews, and cousins. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brother James (Zora) DeFranco and sister Frances DeFranco.

Murry grew up in Niagara Falls and loved the people, the city, and the multitude of lifelong friends he metthrough attending several local schools including 17thStreet School, Stella Niagara Cadet, South Junior, Bishop Duffy, Trott and Niagara Falls High School. He studied Business and Economics at Niagara University. In addition, he was enlisted in the United States Army National Guard and was honorably discharged on April 1, 1967, as a First Lieutenant in the 1st Battalion 174th Armor Unit of the New York Army National Guard.

Murry was a devoted businessman and innovator of many ideas. He will be remembered as a dedicatedfather, grandfather, friend, and uncle always willing to give advice. He started as a businessman early in life with shining shoes at 10 years old and by the age of 12 he was a paper carrier for the Niagara Gazette. Among a myriad of work endeavors, he was a stockboy and salesman for SamPaul Men’s shop. His gift for connecting with people led him to successful leadership positions, including personal sales, training distributors, and sales representatives. Eventually, he settled into the insurance business in the heart of Niagara Falls (DeFranco Insurance Agency). At the same time, he began a travel agency organizing tripsfrom Niagara Falls to Atlantic City and Las Vegas.

Murry had a knack for remembering people and we are convinced he knew just about everyone in Niagara Falls and beyond, including their nicknames, (and everyone had one)! He seemed to run into someone he knew everywhere he went, even on vacation! Family and friends will miss listening to his funny stories and past adventures.

Visitation will be on Sunday, June 7th from 4-8 PM at M.J. Colucci & Son Niagara Funeral Chapel, 2730 Military Road, Niagara Falls, NY. Funeral services to be at St. Joseph’s church 1413 Pine Avenue, Niagara Falls, NY on Monday, June 8th at 10:30 AM followed by burial at St. Joseph Cemetery, 3806 Pine Avenue, Niagara Falls, NY.

Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.