Francis Jude Ciliberto

It is with profound sadness and immense gratitude for a life so deeply loved that we announce that Francis Jude Ciliberto, age 77 of Rock Hall, Maryland and formerly of Ridley Township, Pa., passed away peacefully on Friday May 15, 2026, at home. Born February 8, 1949, he was the beloved son of the late Frank and Mildred Ciliberto, a devoted husband, father, grandfather and uncle, a loyal friend, and extraordinary man who made the world feel warmer and brighter. Although Frank was an only child, he often remarked that he was never a lonely child. In his younger years, he was constantly surrounded by many aunts, uncles and cousins that felt like siblings. His fondest childhood memories included Italian Sunday family dinners, spending time with his mother and aunts in their hoagie shop, and summers in Wildwood. Frank was a 1967 graduate of St. James Catholic High School and a 1971 graduate of the University of Wisconsin- Superior and a proud member of the Tau Kappa Epsilon (TKE) fraternity. Known to his friends and fraternity brothers as “T-Bird”, his friendships- spanning more than 60 years- were built on laughter, honesty, and countless unforgettable stories. He cherished the time spent with them during trips back to Superior, Wisconsin and regular get togethers. Frank worked for most of his career as an insurance and mortgage broker. He also later worked for Lowe’s. Over the past four years, he worked for Rock Hall Landing Marina where he enjoyed his days and made lasting friendships. Above all else, Frank was a family man. A devoted husband to Patricia for 52 years, he was the true example of unconditional love, patience, and companionship. To his children, he was the kind of father that showed up for life’s biggest milestones and the quiet moments in between and reminded them daily how much they were loved and cherished beyond measure. His greatest blessings were his three grandchildren: teaching them how to cook family recipes, spending time, and telling stories. Frank was fiercely devoted to the people he loved. He was dependable in the rarest sense of the word. He loved and offered wisdom without judgment, strength without force, and affection without condition. He always had an answer, a story, or a hand to anyone in need. He was a ‘loud’ man with a quiet soul who loved nature, birds, music, motorcycles, sunsets, body building. He is survived by his loving wife, Patricia Ciliberto (nee Branson), His children: Danielle Bartholf (Patrick), Dana Baker (Jason). His grandchildren: Caiden Bartholf (Lacie), Delaney Baker, Elise Baker. Several Nieces and Nephews: Noel Andrews (Mark Stephens), David Michulka (Shannon), Kelly and Mark Branson Jr. Loving Poppy to David, Casey, Zach, Kiley, Madison, Ryan, Mollie, David, Finn, and Everleigh. Brother-in-law; Mark Branson Sr. Though his absence leaves an immeasurable void, the love he gave so freely remains behind in every life he touched. The imprint of his life remains everywhere: in the lessons he taught, the laughter he created, and the loyalty he modeled. His legacy will live on in the family he adored, the friends he considered family, and the countless people made better simply by knowing him. There will be two celebrations of life for Frank: one in Rock Hall and one in Pennsylvania at a later date, to be announced.

Francis Jude Ciliberto

February 8, 1949 - May 15, 2026