Hood – Our beloved father, Francis Joseph Galvani sadly passed away on Sunday, June 8,
2025, at the age 86. A man of deep faith, strength, and humility, he entered eternal life
to be with the Lord in Heaven.

Francis was born September 17, 1938, in Grayling, Michigan to Domenico Joseph
Galvani and Mary Arvilla (Shreeve) Galvani. After losing his father at the young age of
seven, Francis took on the role of provider early in life. At just 13, he left high school to
work at a gas station to help support his family – a defining act of selflessness that
would echo throughout his life.

In February 1960, Francis married Helen Gertrude Shultis. Together, they had six
children. Though he had left school early, Francis completed his education after
marrying. He earned his high school diploma and went on to receive an Associate of
Science degree in landscape management from Broward Community College.
Francis served honorably in the U.S. military during the Korean War and was
discharged in 1960. He later built a long career as a golf course superintendent,
primarily in Florida, before retiring to Tennessee.

In 2010, Francis married his second wife, Loretta LaBrash. He built a life in Fairfield
Glade, Tennessee, where he became a devoted member of St. Francis of Assisi
Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus. His spiritual life was the foundation of his
strength – especially during his courageous battle with cancer – and he was known for
his quiet faith, generosity, and servant’s heart. He found deep comfort in prayer and in
his church family, who loved him dearly.

Francis will be remembered for his grace, resilience, and countless acts of kindness. He
lived for his family and his faith, and his legacy will live on in the lives he touched.
Francis was preceded in death by his first wife, Helen Galvani, their infant son
Dominique, and his siblings Mary, Gerald, Orlo, Domenico, Irene, Delores, and three
infant siblings, Orlo D., Joseph, and Gerald L. Galvani.

Francis is survived by his second wife, Loretta Galvani; his children:
 Francis Joseph Galvani, Jr. and wife, Michelle LaPlatney Galvani of Atlanta
Georgia
 Maria Asby and husband Ron of Dallas, Georgia
 Michael Galvani and wife Michelle of Hanover, Pennsylvania
 Noelle Martin and husband Allen of Pace, Florida
 Andrea Bullough and husband Will, of Tallahassee, Florida
He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren: Brian Cerqua, Paul Smith, Cameron
Galvani, Sophia Galvani, Joshua Lewis, A.J. Martin, Derek Martin, Katherine Bullough,

Emily Bullough, Madison Galvani, Max Galvani, Deseree Webb, Destiny Webb, and
Drake Webb.
Francis is survived by his siblings, Lucy, Walter and Tom; niece Jennifer Galvani Horn
and her daughter Alexa Galvani Horn of Crossville, Tennessee; Mark Webb (son of
Loretta), of Orlando, Florida, and many cherished nieces and nephews.
We find comfort in knowing that our Father’s legacy lives on through the lessons he
taught us, the love he shared, and the memories we will cherish forever.

Memorial services will be held Friday, June 27, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Franci of
Assisi Catholic Church, located at 7503 Peavine Road, Crossville, Tennessee.