John Marshall Frantz, Jr.
03/29/1940 - 06/15/2020
John Marshall Frantz, Jr. passed away peacefully on June 24, 2020 at his home in Sarasota, Florida. John was born in Knoxville, TN in 1940. As a young boy, his family moved to St. Petersburg, Florida where he spent his formative years. He graduated with honors from St. Petersburg High School in 1957 and he was accepted at Harvard University where he graduated in 1961 with a BA in English. John then moved to the nation’s capital where he worked for the Washington DC Redevelopment Land Agency. John referred to these early years as a period of “creative drifting”. It was this sense of adventure and optimism that inspired him to accept a position in Syracuse, NY as assistant to the director for the Metropolitan Development Agency, where he served from 1965 to 1973. He was involved with much of the redevelopment planning for the city. John began a real estate career at Sutton Real Estate in 1973. He became executive Vice President in 1977. John bought the company in the early 80’s and guided Sutton as President and CEO. Later, he transferred a majority interest to his executive partners and remained Chairman of the Board until his passing. Among John’s most notable projects in Syracuse were Crouse Irving Physicians Office Building, 550 Harrison Center, Corporate Center (UHCC), Presidential Plaza, Metropolitan School For The Arts, and Thursday Morning Round Table. John returned to Florida, living in Sarasota with his wife Marya. He spent his later years walking the beach and enjoying theatre and the arts. John will be remembered for his commitment and generosity to his community, as well as his family and friends. To all who knew him, John had a marvelous sense of humor with a laugh that could be heard for miles!
Surviving are his wife Marya, sons John F. Frantz, (Laura Frantz) Andrew Frantz, and Stepson Craig Lillo, (Jolene Lillo). His daughter Rachel Frantz, as well as 14 grandchildren and 20 great grandchildren. He was predeceased by his daughters Catherine Brown, and Jean Marie Anice Chavers.
Services will be private. Donations may be made to your local food bank.