Marita Therese Frank, age 96, died on February 10, 2025 surrounded by her loving family. Marita was born in 1928 to Anna and Leo Rover. She graduated from the Academy of the Holy Cross in Washington, D.C. and then from Trinity College in Washington, D.C. in 1949. In both schools, she graduated at the top of her class. Marita’s father - “Daddy Leo” - served as U.S. Attorney for Washington, D.C., and was appointed the chief judge of the D.C. Court of Appeals by President Eisenhower. Marita is predeceased by her sisters Margaret and Anna Mae, and her brother, Father Thomas Rover, Dominican Order.
At the end of World War II, Marita’s friend Kay set her up on a date with Kay’s cousin Bill, who attended nearby Catholic University. Upon graduation, Marita was employed by the intelligence community, and encouraged her fiancé Bill to join, too. They were married in 1951 and raised four children in Bethesda, MD. She had a long career working for the U.S. Army, including stints at the Pentagon.
Marita and Bill loved their life in Bethesda where they raised their children on Ashburton Lane. St. Jane de Chantal church and school were the center of activity for faith and friendships, including the famous “Dinner Club” and Sunday football.
Marita was a supportive, kind, and patient parent who encouraged her children in education and sports. She tolerantly allowed her children to have every pet they asked for, from Mitzi the dog to reptiles and rodents. She was always present for her children, in good times and hard times. She loved being surrounded by family and friends. Many happy times were spent in Washington, Bethesda, Long Beach Island, Falls, PA and Bethany Beach. She loved playing bridge, volunteering at her children’s elementary school, even after they grew up, and cheering on the Washington sports teams. She knitted blankets and scarves for her family and children’s items for charity.
Marita was gentle, warm, kind and compassionate. She made devoted friends throughout her life and was extremely loyal, staying in touch for years through letters, cards and visits. She was very humble and never sought attention, but she touched everyone she met. She was a role model who inspired us with her kindness, intellect and graciousness. Marita was exceptionally well-read in literature and history, and completed the N.Y. Times crossword puzzles for fun. No matter where she was, all activity had to stop at 7 pm so she could watch “Jeopardy,” and crush us mere mortals who couldn’t compete.
When she retired to an over-55 community in Wilmington, DE, her home became the center of community activity. She joined the Craft Club and formed lasting friendships throughout the neighborhood. Later, she moved to an independent living facility in Wilmington and quickly made friends with the residents and staff. All who knew her will miss her terribly.
Marita is predeceased by William F. Frank, her husband of 68 years, and her daughter Christine. She is survived by her children Stephen Frank (Roberta), Maureen Ramsey (Dennis), and Susan Frank Bullock (Jeff); her grandchildren Diana, Bill, Matthew, Ryan, Kate, and Caroline; and her great-grandchildren Roland and Clementine.
The burial will be held privately. A memorial ceremony and celebration of Marita’s life will be announced at a future date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Little Sisters of the Poor, Jeanne Jugan Residence, 4200 Harewood Rd. NE, Washington, D.C. 20017-1554.
