'Energetic' Morris Teacher Mourned After Battle With Lymphoma

MORRIS PLAINS, NJ — Anna Francesca "Frankie" Reganato brought an energetic presence in and out of the classroom — bringing the best out of students and completing marathons. And she fought until the end of her three-year battle with lymphoma.

Reganato, 37, died June 2, leaving a community, including the Morris School District, mourning her loss. She was born in Pequannock Township before moving to Ramsey in 1989. At Ramsey High School, Reganato ran for the varsity track and cross country teams and was an accomplished student.

After graduating from The College of New Jersey with a bachelor's degree in education, she worked for 15 years as a "15 years as a fun-loving, passionate, and energetic elementary school teacher" for the Morris and Ramsey school districts, according to her obituary.

Reganato taught elementary schoolers at the Alfred Vail School.

"Good teachers know how to bring out the best in students," Principal Janet Kellman told Patch. "Frankie did that. She was a gifted and talented teacher who truly cared about children. She was a beautiful being and will be sorely missed."

Reganato married her high school sweetheart, Anthony, in 2013, and they started their family in Ramsey. Above all, she cherished family and loved nothing more than making her children happy, according to her obituary.

She was also an accomplished runner, completing marathons in New Orleans and New York City.

Reganato is predeceased by her mother, Jo Ann; her sister, Margo, and survived by her beloved husband, Anthony; sons Anthony Rocco and Gianni Francis; father Frank; stepmother Mary; father-in-law Peter; mother-in-law Patricia; siblings Michael, Lori, Louis, James and Zachary; sister-in-law Melissa; brother-in-law Joseph; twelve nieces and nephews; and supportive extended family.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Reganato – LaVigna Boys Fund and mailed to P.O. Box 792, Ramsey, NJ 07446.

Read her obituary here.

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