Dr. Frank D’Aquila, 89, a native of Fort Adams, Miss., and a resident of Falls Church, went to be with the Lord on Feb. 23. He was born in Fort Adams, Miss. on July 13, 1929. Preceded in death by his parents, Frank D’Aquila and Velma Stutzman D’Aquila; sisters, Rita Mae and Patricia D’Aquila Templet. He is survived by brothers, Billy D’Aquilla of St. Francisville, La., and Michael D’Aquila of Brandon, Miss., and a host of nieces and nephews.
Following his graduation from high school in Woodville, Miss., Frank briefly attended Loyola University before entering the U.S. Navy where he served admirably during the Korean War. After his honorable discharge, Frank graduated from Marquette University Dental School in Milwaukee, Wis. Dr. D’Aquila went on to practice Pediatric Dentistry for many years in Falls Church where as a longtime resident, he lived, worshipped and thrived among a close circle of dear friends and neighbors, who came to love and appreciate Frank for his generosity, wit and the most delightful parties in the neighborhood.
After retirement, Frank frequently shared his skills as a dynamic storyteller, thespian and puppeteer and took great joy in entertaining countless school children, nursing home residents and other groups with his colorful and humorous life stories and lessons. He was an excellent tour guide of Washington, D.C. to all his friends, relatives and countless visitors. He also enjoyed serving as a volunteer docent at the historic Surratt House and as an active member of the Victorian Society. He will be greatly missed by family and friends. His nephews and great nephews will serve as pallbearers. Visitation will be held on Saturday, March 30 from 10 a.m. – 11 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church (338 Church St., Woodville, Mississippi) with the funeral mass to follow at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial gifts be directed to either the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, P.O. Box 4527, New York, NY 10163, or in support of a memorial “Dr. Frank D’Aquila Bench” made payable to Michelle Neyland, 800 W. Broad St., P. O. Box 6939, Falls Church, VA 22040. Family and friends may also offer their condolences and/or share their personal remembrances of Dr. Frank by visiting an online guestbook at frankdaquila.net.
