Roll Call Tribute

Francis A. "Frank" Akpadock 

December 20, 1956 - February 25, 2025 

Dr. Frank A. Akpadock, 68 of Canfield, Ohio, transitioned peacefully to eternal rest surrounded by his loving family on Tuesday, February 25, 2025.

He was born to Chief Andrew Akpan Akpadock and Arit Akpaidem on December 20, 1956 in Ikot Akpa Edung of Ibesikpo-Asutan (LGA), Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria.

Dr. Frank attended St. Augustine Catholic Primary School in Ikot Ebre and Holy Family College Secondary School in Abak, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. A self-proclaimed “forever student”, he emigrated to the United States on scholarship to pursue higher education. He attained a Bachelor’s Degree in Geology and Master’s Degree in City and Regional Planning, from California State University, Fresno. He then went on to receive an additional Master’s Degree in Urban Studies from Portland State University and one year later, earned his doctorate in Regional Sciences from Texas A&M University, College Station.

Dr. Frank settled in the Mahoning Valley and began his career as a Senior Research Economist and Regional Scientist for the Center for Urban and Regional Studies at Youngstown State University. During his nearly 30-year tenure, he worked with many public leaders.

As a staunch Catholic, Dr. Frank relied heavily on his faith. He was a lector, choir member, and took pleasure in decorating the church with his family and others during the Christmas season.

With his wife of almost two decades, Jessie Akpadock (née Bassey), they built a life together rooted in faith, love, devotion, and sharing countless moments of joy and prayer. He also enjoyed hosting and attending social gatherings, celebrating the milestones of his children and friends, and watching a good match of tennis.

Dr. Frank is survived by his wife, Jessie Akpadock; his daughters, Evelyn (Larry) Garchar and Mary Akpadock, both of Pittsburgh and Cynthia Akpadock of Akron and many nieces, nephews, cousins and in-laws.

The family will receive relatives and friends from 10:00 a.m. at St. Edward Parish, 240 Tod Lane in Youngstown on Friday, March 7, 2025. A. Funeral Mass will follow at 11:00 a.m., with interment at the Calvary Cemetery-Youngstown, 248 S. Belle Vista Avenue in Youngstown immediately after. A reception will be held in the Vincentian Hall of St. Edward Parish from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.