Frank Mario Carollo, Sr., 88, of New Orleans and a post-Katrina resident of Hattiesburg, Mississippi, passed away peacefully on September 22, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He leaves behind a beautiful legacy of 68 years of marriage, a devoted family, lifelong friendships, and countless stories and memories that will continue to bring laughter and joy to those who knew him. As a young man, Frank served in the US Army and then enjoyed a lifelong career in finance, automotive, insurance and other entrepreneurial pursuits.

Frank is survived by his beloved wife, Patricia Knowles Carollo, his daughters, Carla Carollo and Maria Carollo Hovan, sons, Frank Mario Carollo, Jr. (Tara) and Louis Frank Carollo (Michael McLaughlin), and his grandchildren, Mario Gagliano (Cecilia), Antonio Gagliano (Monica), Anthony Carollo (Gemma), Christina Carollo (John), Gianni Carollo, Katherine Hovan Landry (Cameron), Margaret Hovan, and Elizabeth Hovan Mabry (Todd).

He was a proud great-grandfather to Ava, Adrianna, Luca, Caleb, Sofia, Harper, Marley, Miles, Hayes, Walter, Charles, James Louis, Benjamin, and William, and took great delight in watching his family grow through the generations. He is also survived by his brother, Ben B. Carollo (Lucille), along with many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Louis and Minnie Pipitone Carollo; his sisters, Rosalie C. Schiro (Jimmie), Nina C. Ballero (Nunzi), Bernadine C. Bonnecarrere (Frank), Mary C. Mouton (Charles), Louise C. Hymel (Joseph), Josephine “Fefe” Carollo, and Florence Mistretta; his brother, Dr. Carlo L. Carollo (Angelina), and his great-grandchildren, Camille, John Patrick, and Eli Landry.

Family was at the center of Frank’s world. He cherished gatherings, celebrations, holidays, and simply having the people he loved around him. He had a gift for turning ordinary moments into unforgettable memories, bringing laughter and warmth wherever he went. His family will remember the way he made them feel—loved, welcomed, entertained, and part of something meaningful.

Frank had a wonderful sense of humor and an unmistakable talent for making people laugh. An avid jokester, he was quick with a story, playful comment, or sharp jab - all in fun. Those who knew him could always expect a little mischief, plenty of laughter, and perhaps a joke at their expense, delivered with affection and that familiar twinkle in his eye.

He was also a master card player and treasured the friendships he built around the card table. His pinochle and poker crews became lifelong friends and an important part of his life.

Frank’s humor, generosity, and one-of-a-kind personality will be profoundly missed. Though he is no longer at the card table, telling a story, watching a favorite movie or Saints game, planning his next adventure, or holding one of his precious grandbabies entertaining them with his signature whistle, his memory will remain a joyful and lasting presence in the lives of all who loved him.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a visitation at Our Lady of Prompt Succor Church, 2320 Paris Road, Chalmette, LA 70043, at 11:00 a.m., with a Mass to follow at noon. Interment at St. Roch II Cemetery, 1725 Music Street, New Orleans, LA 70117.

In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Smile Train, www.smiletrain.org, in honor of Frank Carollo.