Frankie Barbuto

Francis John “Frankie” Barbuto, Jr., 28, passed away unexpectedly, Wednesday, March 15, 2023, at UPMC Presbyterian Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA.

The Barbuto family is absolutely devastated by the sudden loss of Frankie and were not prepared to cover the cost of yet another loss in their family.  Their son John was tragically killed 9 years ago in a motorcycle accident and oldest son Vincent was killed unexpectedly 3 years ago. All donations will go towards helping the family with both medical and funeral expenses.

The Barbuto family has lived with Frankie’s severe mental illness for over a decade, which worsened following the death of his brother, Vincent in 2020. People who have a serious mental illness coupled with a drug addiction face a stigma in the community and within the healthcare model. There is a devastating trend of premature death among people with mental illness. This needs to change!

Frankie was a 2013 graduate of Central Valley High School, attended CCBC for aviation and the Pittsburgh Technical Institute.

Frankie will always be remembered for his spontaneity; like when he flew to Denver for the day on a whim. He had incredible insight. He loved doing home projects and working on the landscaping at his house. He took great pride in all of his projects. He would always go out of his way to help someone in need. His precious smile and infectious laugh will be will be missed by all who knew Frankie.

Frankie was a sweet and gentle soul. He cherished his relationships with family and friends. Mental illness and drug addiction often tested those relationships. He fought hard against paranoia and was winning his fight with drug addiction, but the toll of those battles proved too much.

Serious mental illness creates challenges that make it incredibly difficult to maintain a normal life style. Paranoia, schizophrenia, bipolar mood swings, psychosis, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, substance use, addiction and phobias…consider yourself blessed if you do not know anyone who has to deal with any of these afflictions.

Frankie is one of those who was not able to overcome the demons of his mental illness. Despite being diligent with obtaining psychological and substance abuse help, he just was not able to overcome the trauma in his life. It is impossible for most people to comprehend that battle and some of the decisions and actions made by those dealing with his issues. Earlier this week, Frankie made a decision that left him with no brain function. His mother, father, and sisters made the choice to donate his organs to bless other families in need. The family finds great consolation that Frankie will live on and make other’s lives better.

The Barbuto family wants to thank everyone who has shown their love and support, not only in these recent days, but in their lifetime. Please consider donating if you are able to do so. More importantly, continue praying that God gives this family the strength to make it through laying their 3rd child to rest and moving forward in their life without him.