Anthony DeFranco, the former owner of the International House of Pancakes on Hillside Avenue in Williston Park, died last Thursday in his Old Westbury home, his family said. He was 93.
DeFranco was born on New Year’s Eve in Manhattan in 1928 to Theresa and Dominic DeFranco as the youngest of three children. He earned a master’s in religion from the Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) Theological Seminary in Washington, D.C., in 1953 before becoming a first-grade teacher in Takoma Park, Maryland, at the Cynthia Warner School.
“He went on to impact the lives of countless students as a teacher and principal at the Hempstead SDA School and Greater New York Academy,” his family said in a statement.
Before becoming a business owner in 1969, DeFranco became an ordained minister in 1963 and became the head elder at the Old Westbury Seventh Day Adventist Church. Responsibilities for elders include leading worship services, preaching, being a spiritual mentor and serving in an advisory capacity in the church’s administration, among other things.
“He spent decades teaching Sabbath School and sharing his knowledge of the Bible and the impact Jesus had on his life,” his family said. “Anthony loved praising his Lord by singing. He was part of the Old Westbury Singers and many choirs throughout the years.
DeFranco’s family said his love for the Yankees was “unrivaled,” and he spent over eight decades cheering the Bronx Bombers from Joe Dimaggio to Derek Jeter and Aaron Judge.
“He could often be heard saying ‘Sharon, check the score!’ at dinner,” his family said, referring to his wife.
At IHOP, DeFranco’s generous spirit was evident in how he cared for employees and customers, his family said. He went out of the way “to better the lives of everyone who entered the restaurant,” according to his family.
“Anthony was a blessing to all who knew him,” the family said. “His constant encouragement inspired many to have a closer walk with the Lord and to be a beacon of light in a dark world. His precious memory will be forever in their hearts.”
DeFranco is survived by his wife of 24 years, Sharon, two sons, Stephen and Douglas of Mineola, a stepson, Bruce Belverd, and many grandchildren. He was predeceased by his stepson Kevin Belverd.
