If there is one belief that has consistently defined the various chapters of Frank “Roy” Meserole’s life, it is the importance of “being there” for his community. Having resided on the same street in the Rockaways for 87 years, Meserole has watched the area and its needs evolve in countless ways. In cultivating decades-long partnerships with local organizations, he has strived to ensure that his neighbors have enduring access to an array of quality resources. From working with the Inwood Civic Association to operating as a trustee of the Peninsula Library in the same area, Meserole has always felt called to serve whenever and wherever possible. His efforts to carry out this mission even extend beyond life. As owner of a 125-year-old family-run funeral home, he has long since sought to provide dignity and accessibility of care to families honoring their loved ones, regardless of their socioeconomic backgrounds.

It is Meserole’s dedication to widespread, steadfast service that prompted him to become involved with St. John’s Episcopal Hospital for over 30 years. As a member of the Community Advisory Committee, he gained a behind-the-scenes perspective into the Hospital's operation. His admiration for the healthcare team as it worked tirelessly to offset the damage from crises such as Superstorm Sandy in 2012, drove his desire to do more. “Wealth is important, but health is everything,” Meserole explains. He then began sharing his funds in earnest in an effort to bring medical care to every corner of the Rockaways. By supporting St. John’s in its pursuit to further community outreach as a means of more effectively treating people, Meserole has established himself as a local figure defined by innovation.

Caption: Nancy Leghart, Executive Director, St. John's ICARE Foundation with Frank "Roy" Meserole as he is honored at the St. Joachim’s Church's Diamond Ball held at the Seawane Club in Hewlett Harbor.