Obituary of Franklin D Bynoe

Franklin D. Bynoe passed away on July 17, 2024, in Forest Hills, New York. He was 77. Frank came into this world in January 1947 to an Army family that already had too many mouths to feed. He would wind up being the son they all relied on throughout their lives for care, support, everything. As a boy, he had the unique experience to live in Brooklyn, Japan, and Cape Cod. He returned home his childhood roots in East New York during his teenage years. After all, he was always a proud Brooklyn boy who rooted for the Dodgers at Ebbets Field and coveted Ebinger’s chocolate blackout cake. Frank was a natural storyteller who lit up as he related fantastic stories of a childhood spent biking the length of Cape Cod, blowing up remote control toy boats in Japan, getting kicked out of the Boy Scouts for throwing blanks in the fire, working under the tutelage of JoJo to “rescue cars,” or ditching high school classes to work (probably more than full time) at Times Square Store. Regardless of the rambunctious antics of his youth, Frank found ways to satisfy his endless curiosity and challenge his great intellect in a way his schooling alone could not. But beyond his brain, Frank had a heart bigger than the whole of the world.That big, beautiful heart met its soulmate in a bowling alley at age 17. He knew then, not only that Gloria was the most beautiful woman he had ever met (with the best legs he had ever seen), but also, that he would spend the rest of his life with her. And they built the most beautiful life. On December 7, 1968, Pearl Harbor Day, a day that will “live in infamy,” Frank married his eternal love, with whom he enjoyed 55 years of marriage. Like all marriages, theirs weathered sunshine and storms, ups and downs, truly living up to their vows of “for better or for worse.” But the “better,” boy, was that great! They grew up and grew well together. They entertained, they cooked, and they traveled. They made annual trips to Las Vegas, and, later, weekend trips to Atlantic City. They built a beautiful family of friends, because, of course, who wouldn’t want to be friends with Frank? Kind, loyal, helpful, funny, and smart; the most generous and magnanimous of men. On February 11,1982, their family became more than their friends. That day, Frank and Gloria brought into the world the apple of his eye, his pumpkin, his sweetheart, his PITA-- their daughter. In the delivery room, Frank announced exuberantly, “It’s a Jessica!” He put his whole heart into being the best dad ever. He encouraged Jessica to learn, explore, grow, challenge herself, travel, and embrace her independent spirit. He was so proud, supportive, and loving; he was the original “girl dad.” As if his success as a husband and father weren’t enough, Frank dedicated himself to a 45-year career at Con Edison. He often referred to himself as “Captain Kirk,” while he sat overlooking the control center board to ensure over 11 million customers had light in their homes. All those lights combined could only be outshone by the light he poured into us. After he retired, Gloria and Frank enjoyed over ten years of afternoon card games, four o’clock Backgammon, and their morning “Price is Right!” He always looked forward to visits with Jessica because he knew she would cook him whatever his heart desired. He loved to challenge Jessica with requests like paella, Veal Milanese, or -- the most recent dish Jessica prepared for him -- linguine with clam sauce. Every meal was washed down by a favorite red wine, preferably a Brunello di Montalcino. Frank was never shy to savor a good meal, and over 77 years, savored one of the richest lives. We should all be so lucky! Frank is survived by his wife, Gloria, and his daughter, Jessica (Anthony McCoy). He also leaves behind the dearest of friends: Jerry Armstrong, Matt and Mary Modica, Ralph and Maria Liparulo, and Jackie Palumbo. He is preceded in death by his parents, Russell and Joan, his sister, Lillian, his brothers, Russell and Gilbert, and beloved friends Joseph Palumbo and Sally Armstrong. A viewing will be hosted at Glascott Funeral Home on Sunday, July 21 from 5-7pm and Monday, July 22 from 12-3pm, followed by a service at the funeral home and then a reception to honor Frank’s life at one of his favorite restaurants, Lenny’s Clam Bar. The family requests no flowers. In recognition of Frank, donations may be sent to the American Heart Association, NYU College of Arts and Science, or PENCIL.