Joseph Franco

Joseph Franco, 38 of Bradenton passed away September 3, 2024 due to unexpected health complications.

Joseph was born on November 5, 1985 in Tampa and moved to Bradenton while in junior high school.

Joseph had an 8-year relationship and was engaged to marry Deidra O’Houlahan who has a daughter Abigail Hajny. Joseph had the family he was looking forward to being with for the rest of his life. We are so sad for Deidre and Abigail. They had plans to have a beautiful life with Joseph.

Joseph graduated Magna Cum Laude from Keiser College with a degree in Information Technology Science and he was a graduate of Manatee High School and Manatee Community College. He was employed in cyber security and as a computer systems technician. He was a member of the Phi Betta Kappa Honor Society. He is also a graduate of the National Personal Trainer Institution as a personal trainer and certified nutritionist. In previous employment, he worked as private investigator.

Joseph was a weight-lifter and played as a lineman in semi-pro football and high school. He had a love of football stemming from his father’s position as placekicker on the 1972 Florida Gator Football Team. In his youth, he played football on the Bradenton Police Athletic League achieving Most Valuable Player. During strength training, he would push his car around the neighborhood with his friend Chad steering. He was a very formidable lineman.

Joseph was a gentle, loving man with a huge heart and will be dearly missed by his family and friends. He was looking forward to his marriage to Diedra and especially pleased to have a new grandson, Jasper born New Years Day of 2024.

Joseph enjoyed family gatherings and being with his family and friends.

Joseph is survived by his Mother: Joyce Rowe, Father: Richard Franco: Step-Father: Ronald Rowe, Brother: Richard Cyr (Anita) with nieces Jasmine Cyr and Ariel Schmutz, Sister: Melony Piloto (Jimmy) with nieces Sophia and Olivia Piloto, Daughter: Sam Atkins (Nicolas) with Grandchild: Jasper Atkins, Grandmother: Joyce Lyons, many aunts, uncles, cousins, friends and his long-time friend Chad Goodhew.

A Celebration of Life is scheduled for Sunday, October 6, 2024 at 1:00 PM at The Club at Cheval, 4312 Cheval Blvd, Lutz, Fl.

Burial will be a private family service at Trinity Memorial Gardens in Trinity, Fl. at a later date.

Gone much to soon…..we miss you Joe and you will be forever in our hearts. You are the best son a mother could ever ask for. You were loved by many people. You are with God and not suffering. Rest in peace my loved one - Joyce Rowe