Francis Andrew Cassidy, Esq.
Francis (Frank) Andrew Cassidy was born on October 2, 1932 in Brooklyn, New York to Francis Cassidy and Irene (McDonough) Cassidy. Delivered at home by his maternal grandmother Catherine, he overcame a near-fatal childhood accident and earned the affectionate nickname “Scrappy” for his spirited nature.
Frank joined the Navy during the Korean War era. His time at sea took him around the world—crossing the equator, meeting the Pope, and enduring a winter on an icebreaker. After his Navy service, he earned a BA in Economics and a JD Law Degree from St. John’s University in just five years.
Frank married his beloved wife, Kathleen (Mickey) Cassidy and they raised five children.
Frank’s 42-year career with the federal government was distinguished by his work on groundbreaking defense projects. He earned numerous accolades and rose to the position of Chief Counsel at Picatinny Arsenal before his retirement in 2001.
A devoted father above all, he enjoyed spending time with his family and took immense pride in their accomplishments. Frank was an avid golfer and fisherman. In 2015, he was the oldest recipient to win “Angler of the Year” at the local rod and gun club. He became a NY Jets season ticket holder in 1965 and continued to attend games through last season.
In retirement, Frank gave back to the community through volunteer work with The Arc of Warren County. He was a proud member of the “ROMEO” club. A moniker that stands for: “Retired-Old-Men-Eating-Out.” A witty jokester, he often had amusing stories to tell. His favorite quote from Scaramouche summed up his outlook on life: “He was born with the gift of laughter and a sense that the world was mad.”
Frank is preceded in death by his wife Mickey, daughter Kelly, granddaughter Christina and sister Irene Sullivan. He is lovingly survived by his children, Kevin and wife Helen, Kathleen and Michael, Timothy and wife Sarah, Matthew and wife Vanessa, son-in-law Kaha, grandchildren, Kaitlin and Sullivan; and numerous family members and friends who will miss him dearly. He was 92 years old.
A viewing will be held on Friday, February 28, 2025 from 4:00pm – 8:00pm at Cochran Funeral Home, 905 High Street, Hackettstown NJ 07840.
A celebration of Frank’s remarkable life will be held on Saturday, March 1, 2025 at St. Mary’s Church of the Assumption, 302 High Street, Hackettstown, N.J. 07840 at 11:00am. The burial will be immediately after the Mass at Pequest Union Cemetery, 30 Cemetery Road, Great Meadows, NJ 07838.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Cochran Funeral Home, 905 High Street, Hackettstown NJ 07840. Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.cochranfuneral.com
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Dan and Jean Grinter says
February 25, 2025 at 3:54 pmOur heartfelt condolences to all of Franks family. Will always cherish the times we had with Frank and family fishing off our island home on the St Lawrence river. RIP my friend.
Ken Martin says
February 26, 2025 at 12:47 amWorked, laughed, and learned with Frank for many years at Fort Monmouth and after his move to Picatinny. “Spiffo” to us – nothing but good memories of simply a “good guy” and colleague. Very sad occasion but Frank loved life and lived life. My good fortune to have known him!
Lance Hulack says
February 26, 2025 at 7:18 pmI remember sitting with Frank in section 109 back in ’96.
The Jets were winning and I was standing, screaming my head off.
Frank looked up at me and said, “Lance, sit down”. I said, “come on Frank, we’re winning, get excited!”, and then Frank uttered these words to me that I will never forget…”Lance, you will learn, the Jets will always break your heart”.
RIP Mr. Cassidy…I’ll never forget ya!
Scott Churchill says
February 27, 2025 at 4:55 pmKevin and family-our condolences-my parents always enjoyed the company of your parents. Frank wil be missed.
Denise Scott says
February 28, 2025 at 5:53 pmI worked for Frank at Picatinny from 1985 until he retired. Best boss ever!
I have great memories of those days. He taught me so much and made me laugh almost every day! He leaves me with so many great stories to tell.
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