Frank Flory Jr.

Frank Joseph Flory, Jr., 84, of Center Rutland, passed away unexpectedly at his home on August 6, 2026. He was born on August 31st, 1941, in Rutland, VT to Frank and Alice (Vignali) Flory Sr.

Frank graduated from Mount Saint Joseph Academy in 1959 and was part of the1958 MSJ football team that won the MSJ-Rutland football classic for the first time in many years.After high school Frank served 3 years in the United States Navy, stationed in Panama. Looking for more adventure, he joined the Merchant Marine for a time after leaving the navy. Frank settled back in Rutland, joining New England Telephone in the telecommunications division where he was employed until his retirement in 2003. Frank wasn't retired for long before he found a second career as a substitute teacher, working in the local schools, especially the Poultney and West Rutland school systems. Frank found great satisfaction being with young people and supporting them by attending their athletic events.

Anyone who knew Frank could attest that he couldn't sit still for long. His interests usually revolved around being active. He was an avid skier in his younger days, traveling to South America and the West in the 70's to find deeper snow.

When his children were young he joined the Pico Skis Club and became an instructor in the Junior Program and served as President of the Pico Ski Club in the early 90's. Frank trained for and ran in several marathons including twice in the NYC Marathon. He took up sailing in the 80's and sailed the water of Lake Champlain with his family aboard "Calliope". He joined the very informal "Uncle Charlie's Yacht Club", even serving as "Commodore" Frank especially enjoyed riding his road bike around the Rutland area roads. He was still riding the hill near his house until fairly recently. Frank was able to instill in his own children the love of an active life and sense of adventure. They have found the inspiration to follow his example in their own lives, in their own way.

Frank loved his family but his next love was his cars, starting with his Corvettes in the 60's. He became a loyal Mercedes customer and always kept his car in tip-top condition. He was a familiar sight around town with his distinctive ADIOS license plate. 

He is survived by his wife, Julie McQuaid-Flory, his children, Vanessa Flory and her husband Phil Wettach, Colin Flory and his wife Allie, his sister Paula Bass and his grandson Harrison Wettach.

Frank will be remembered for his great smile and vibrant personality. He would chat up just about anybody and had the gift of gab. 

His family and friends will miss his presence. Here's to a life well lived.

A Celebration of Life will be held on October 24th, 2026 from 3pm-6pm at the Rutland Country Club.