Francis A. “Poncho” Gallicchio – 87 – of Greeley Avenue, Hornell, died Friday morning (August 28, 2026) at St. James Hospital following a long illness.
Born in Hornell on October 20, 1938, he was the son of the late Dominic and Domenica “Dee” (DeGaetano) Gallicchio.
Poncho grew up in Hornell and graduated from St. Ann School before graduating from Hornell High School (class of 1957). He later attended New Penn Cosmetology where he earned his NYS Cosmetology License.
In 1963, Poncho purchased and, with the help of his parents, operated “PONCHO’S” store in Canisteo, NY. He also owned and operated a beauty shop in Canisteo until it was destroyed by fire in 1992. Francis’ work ethic began as a young teenager. During his lifetime, he had many different employers, including the Erie Railroad, Ontario Industries, Hornell Evening Tribune, and the Hornell Post Office to name a few. While he was employed by Steuben SCEOP, he was put in charge of setting up the “Elderberry Express,” which later became Hornell’s HAT Bus System. Most recently, Francis was hired as the Office Manager at Covered Wagon Train, Inc. in Hornell, which was owned and operated by his sister, Mary Ann.
Francis was a proud veteran of the United States Army and served in the National Guard for over 5 years, 6 months, and 24 days. He was Honorably Discharged on February 29, 1964.
Poncho was an avid roller skater and loved riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle. He was past president and life member of “HOG” – Harley Owners Group. For fifteen years, he helped organize the widely known benefit ride “Rock and Roar.” He eventually took over the event, and, along with the help of many of his friends and fellow members, he was able to donate thousands of dollars to local charities, needy individuals, and organizations.
He was a life member of the American Legion Riders and the AMVET Riders, both of Hornell NY.
Having a passion for music, Francis enjoyed working with his son, Dominic, who was a member of the local band, Vendetta. Francis purchased a complete light show for the group and traveled with them as they performed at many local establishments and events. A special highlight of his travels with the group was when he was occasionally asked to play songs with the group. He enjoyed the friendship of the group and the patrons that came out to see and listen to their music. The band performed “good old classic rock ‘n roll,” and Poncho could be seen on the dance floor from time to time.
In addition to his parents, Dominic & Domenica, Francis was preceded in death by his sister, Mary Ann (Gallicchio) Parmley.
Francis is survived by his loving son, Dominic (Jennifer) Gallicchio of Hornell; grandchildren, Anthony (Laura) Gallicchio of Clarence, NY, Nickolas Gallicchio of Canisteo, NY; and Jessica Gallicchio of Gates, NY; great-granddaughter, Nina Francesca Gallicchio; three daughters and their families.
The family of Francis A. “Poncho” Gallicchio will receive friends on Thursday September 3 from 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.
A Memorial Service with Military Honors will be held at the funeral home on Friday September 4 at 10:00 AM with Deacon Robert McCormick officiating. Final interment will be in St. Ann’s Cemetery, Hornell.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Francis’ name may be made to the AMVETS, 28 Broadway Mall, Hornell, NY 14843 or to the Hornell American Legion, 72 Seneca St., Hornell, NY 14843. Memorial forms will be available at the Dagon Funeral Home.
To leave an online condolence or share a memory, please visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com or www.facebook.com/dagonfuneralhome
In recognition of Francis’ service to our country as a member of the United States Army, the American Flag at the Dagon Funeral Home will be flown at half-staff.
