Frances Giovanniello Sovak passed away peacefully on May 3, 2026, at age 84.

Fran was born April 1, 1942, in Brooklyn, NY to Vincenzo and Laura Giovanniello and moved to Ellenville, NY as a young girl; where she remained to raise her family with her beloved husband, Jack Sovak.

Frannie, as she was known to many, taught at the Ellenville Central School District for over 30 years.

She coached basketball and field hockey and was interested in anything related to the Ellenville Blue Devils. She also always cheered for the Pittsburgh Steelers.

She was a life-long member of St. Mary’s and St. Andrew’s Church. She took delight in assisting with the church’s food pantry. She was also a member of the Ellenville Hospital Ladies Auxiliary.

Fran was very active, always walking around the village, enjoying the time seeing friends and former students. Besides being a mother and grandmother, her next favorite title was Mrs. Sovak.

She found great pleasure in seeing her students, even greater learning about their lives.

You would frequently find her at an ice cream stand, as she was a great ice cream eater.

Fran is survived by her devoted daughters Laura (Duane) of Syracuse, NY, Christine (James) of Ellenville, NY, and Jennifer (John) of Grahamsville, NY; her four grandchildren; who were the light of her life, James, John, Mia, and Devin; and one great-grandchild, Benjamin. She is also survived by her younger brothers, Nick and Michael, and several nieces and nephews, who were like her own children, and many great friends who were considered family.

Fran was predeceased by her cherished husband in 2002. She has also been reunited with her sisters; Monica and Rose, as well as her nephew Louie.

Visitation will take place at Loucks Funeral Home, 79 North Main Street, Ellenville, NY 12428 on Friday, May 8, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

The following day, Saturday, May 9, 2026, a funeral mass will be held at St. Mary’s and St. Andrew’s Church in Ellenville, NY at 10:30 AM.

Promptly following the services at church; internment will take place at Fantinekill Cemetery, Ellenville, NY.

Memorial contributions can be made in honor of Fran to St. Judes or the Alzheimer’s Association.

The family would like to thank everyone who has supported Frannie along the way. Particularly those during her last few years, especially Jennie and the entire staff at the Carlucci Home. Fran was a fighter until the very end. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Loucks Funeral Home extends their condolences to everyone mourning Frannie. May her strength and spirit bring comfort and guidance to all those who cherish her.

“Those we love don’t go away; they walk beside us every day.”