Following part about Frank Sinatra’s Death is from My Father’s Daughter by Tina Sinatra.
9th of May, 1998
The new millenium was in sight.
Dad was determined to be a part of it. “How many more months?” he asked me.
Eighteen, I told him, rounding down a bit.
“Oh, I can do that” he said. “Nothin’ to it.”…
14th of May, 1998
The phone rang at exactly 11:10 pm. It was Rex Kennamer. “I have bad news, we lost him.”
“Lost who?” I said.
“Your father. I’m sorry.”
13 years ago, Barbara Sinatra was outside for dinner. Frank Sinatra’s situation suddenly got worse and he was taken to hospital at around 9pm. The doctors called Barbara immediately, and tried to save Sinatra for like 1,5 hour. Despite how long they tried, they couldn’t save him. In the end, at 10:50pm, Frank Sinatra died from a heart attack…
And at 11.10pm, Tina Sinatra was informed that her father had passed away. She called Nancy and in minutes they got to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center.
Tina Sinatra: “…My father lay facing us, eyes closed, hands over his chest; he lay on a lowered gurney, ready to be wheeled away. Barbara was seated in a chair to his left. We entered the cubicle without acknowledgment. I went directly to Dad and knelt beside him. “Oh, Poppa,” I said. At the sight of him my tears broke their dam. I wept freely, my forehead pressed against his upper arm. I looked for fear in his face, but saw none. His strain and torment were gone- in death he looked once more to be a figure of command. When i touched him, he was still warm. For an instant, I thought i was him move. I silently prayed for him. Oh God, take him and make him safe and warm, but keep him close to me. And to him: I am so sorry I was not here for you. I was filled with guilt and anger, but kept those feelings contained. I just kept saying to myself that I loved him, over and over again…”
In Sinatra family, Frank Sinatra’s death and the funeral arrangements were a total mess due to Barbara Sinatra. Sinatra’s children weren’t informed about Frank Sinatra’s Death neither when he was taken to hospital nor during the 80 minutes when doctors were trying to save him. No doubt Barbara ordered the doctors and hospital not to inform them.
6 days after Frank Sinatra’s death, on 20th of May, 1998, the Frank Sinatra’s funeral took place at Church of the Good Shepherd in Beverly Hills.
In The Wee Small Hours, Moonlight In Vermont, Ave Maria and Put Your Dreams Away were played at the church and during the religious service during Frank Sinatra’s funeral, along with some other songs probably.
Here is a video of Tina’s, Frankie Jr’s and Nancy Sinatra’s comments on Put Your Dreams Away and how they explain the moment in the church during Frank Sinatra’s funeral.
Nancy Sinatra: When my dad died, it was the only choice when the question came up which song of Frank’s should be played at the end of the services and of course it had to be Put Your Dreams Away and there wasn’t a dry eye in the church because it’s that kind of an emotional song.
Francis Albert Sinatra was born in Hoboken (12th of December, 1915) and died at the age of 82 in Los Angeles, California. Frank Sinatra’s death was shock for everyone. His grave is at Desert Memorial Park in Cathedral City. He was buried with a pack of Camel cigarettes, a bottle of Jack Daniels, a zippo lighter and dimes.
On the grave, it says “The Best Is Yet To Come”.
My twin sister and I had the opportunity to meet Frank and the Rat Pack when we were juniors at UC Berkeley in 1960. The rat ack – at the Sands Hotel – presented by Jack Entratter – was sensational. But, Frank was exceptional. His singing; presence, eye contact with his audience, and his sexy, magnetic, Italian handsome quality – have been in my heart and soul for over 50 years, and I imagine they will remain until my days end. He was the best.
Sincerely
Joyce R. Dunn
I’m not an apologist for Barbara but it’d be good if there was a little balance here. I don’t know what actually happened the night Frank died because I WASN’T THERE and there’s only been one side of the story published [I haven’t yet read Barbara’s book]. And I don’t keep track of all the commercialisation of “Frank Sinatra Inc” but as far I can understand, Barbara and the three kids were all given their own bits of it. Furthermore, I’ve seen a LOT more stuff being pushed out and sold by the children than the wife. Of course Frank would have wanted to provide for his family but personally – and it is just my opinion – I don’t think any of the recipients come out of it with much to be proud of.
Sinatra was a genius of music its self and show business. He had an attidute tha keeps magnetises millions of people.
I believe that his late wife Barbra was trying to get the most from his worldwide fame, so she can be in the spotlight.
Many mistakes happened during FAS was alive and after his death. This is because of human’s anxiety to have more and more. This is sad, either your name is Sinatra or Ringo or Smith.
Please dear Sinatra fans, let us concentrate on the main issue: Francis Albert Sinatra, THE VOICE! Without any doubt Mr.Sinatra was, is, and – as far as I’m concerned – remains the best singer and interpreter of songs in his field of music. Whatever his children and his latest wife say or do is – with all due respect – of no importance at all. All of them – no one excluded – owns everything they have to the exceptional superior talent of this singular man. He gave his children life, love, care and comfort and, most likely, would not appreciate his children being criticized. So let us enjoy his voice and songs and be put under the spell of his magical presence even after his death.
May he live forever!
Is it just me, or is he buried in a pretty insignificant grave for a man of his stature? Most entertainment legends have a crypt, are in a masoleum, or at least a more elaborate headstone. Mr. Sinatra is laying in a grassy field.
Frank Sinatra was and is a legend and a class act.
When he died, music was never the same.
I often think of Frank when I see the Church of the Good Shepherd because his funeral was there.
There will never be another like him.
George Vreeland Hill
I was a teen ager when Frank became popular and his fan all of my life. Loved all of is songs and was totally amazed when he did a terrific dance number in the movie with Gene Kelly-my idol of all times.
I can remember as a kid my parents house parties and all there friends , dancing and singing to the songs of Mr. Sinatra , I even had one uncle ( Gene ) who even kinda sounded like him . I also remember them all going to Las Vegas just to see him . I am now 62 years old and I have all his CD’s and enjoy playing them often . I live in the desert , La Quinta , close by where he’s buried , I’m glad to know he’s still close by . THANK YOU Mr. Sinatra , you are and always will be the best of all ! Yes , I got YOU under my skin !
Gotaria que o video Frank Sinatra´s 75th birth voltasse ao you tube
para os admiradores foi uma bela despedida . ESpero ser atendido Tanks
I grew up on franks music & I’m still listening & can’t get enough. I saw Frank in Long Beach ca a few years before he passed, I took my parents, He was their era,
I also saw him in at the OC Fairgrounds, I feel so fortunate,
I listen too Sunday’s with Sinatra hosted by the wonderful Jerry Sharrell who relates stories of Franks songs, Its just great! I’ve learned so much,
[…] to both of them. Bob Belvedere: Tonight Will Not Swing (it was seventeen years ago yesterday that Frank Sinatra passed away…) Wombat: B.B. King […]
This article is totally one-sided and not the complete story of Frank’s death. Do I think for one minute that while she was watching doctor’s work on her husband she was saying, “No, don’t call his kids.” Absolutely not, that was not on her mind while her husband was clinging to life right in front of her eyes. Yes, it was sad that they lost their father, but she lost her husband and she is his widow. Barbara Sinatra may not be perfect but she is in no way “evil.” The Sinatra kids have made way more of his name than she has.
It is one sided because Barbara Sinatra has never commented on this matter. She never denied so I don´t know. It is a serious accusation made by Sinatra´s own children. She should have responded to that.
With all due respect, I disagree. Mrs. Sinatra does not need to come out and respond to accusations and start a war of words. That is disrespectful to Frank Sinatra’s memory and not what he would have wanted. Barbara’s book told her story and it is much more tasteful to leave it at that. No need to stir more anger and resentment, besides that was 17 years ago, it’s time to move on.
I first saw Frank Sinatra in the movie, “High Society,” when I was a child; and have been a fan ever since. He had such a wonder voice.
I meant to say that he had such a wonderful voice.
Frank Sinatra sang to the world during
My teen years. There were many memorable songs, moments , rat pack antics and such.
All of it was great fun and
Provided
Many memories. My personal favorite is “ALL THE WAY”
Frank And Frank Jr. we loved you. May God keep you in his Peace!
It’s sad to see him past on thought he’s on to be for his greater achievment to come! My condolents to his loving family! Rest in peace Frank.
Early 70s..some 50+ yrs ago..I was,Frank’s Limo driver when he would come to NY. from Palm Springs for about 2 + yrs..going to Jillys & other stops in NY. The main occasion was on 3/8/71 Ali/Frazer fight @ MSG….picked up Burt Lancaster who did the ringside comments..My Way ..was Frank’s comeback hit ..which he didn’t like..thought it wasn’t his type of song..but of course it became a big hit…I personally sing it differently.. with respect for Frank.kind of wish..my My Way version could have been optional when Frank was alive in those yrs.I miss those yrs in NY. & 1961 period working for NYY Maris/Mantle
I am sure Frank would not want negative comments about his children said. His children might have been a little spoiled — and why not? After they are the children of Francis Albert Sinatra! As far as Barbara Sinatra, she was a showgirl who was very fortunate. Frank might have seen a bit of his own mother in her – able to take charge in his waning years. However, I do think that the older he got, the more selfish side of her has really been revealed. I figured that would happen, because it was her true nature. She never wanted a relationship with his children…she wanted him and him only. What does that say about her as a person? I really don’t want to speculate.
R.I.P. MR. FRANK A. SINATRA
calling FAS just a singer is akin to calling Edison just an electrician. he was and remains the greatest singer / personality of all time. sadly missed. Bill Bohaboy Vegas
Frankie Laine and Frank Sinatra were the all time best.
Both had unique genres in music.
I liked the former in in the 50’s then later on the latter.
So called Music nowadays is mostly garbage.
Without a shadow of doubt, the greatest performer of popular songs,ever! We, the listeners, had no difficulty in understanding the presentation of both the lyric and the music. Whether the song was a delicate ballad or a swinging, upbeat number, it always arrived in a tasteful manner. A performer par excellence!
I have been to Las Vegas exactly one night in my entire life,May 14,1998,the night The Voice was silenced.What’s more is that I’m a lifelong resident of Frank Sinatra’s hometown county of Hudson in New Jersey.I hadn’t counted on going there at all as I was in San Diego that morning before deciding to take an overnight trip there.Perhaps a higher power was at work here.
Twenty years this week he died,,,but he will never be forgotten!
I am immersed ..as someone is killing me softly …been long …and yet when i listen him every time…100 more time in replays
Frank sure did it his way, and shouldn’t everyone, life is short you grow old fast and disappear forever! He was driven, and shouldn’t everyone be, you get no where if you don’t push yourself! Life is what you make it, he understood that and made his pure joy! He was always in total control, and shouldn’t everyone be, losing control for Frank was not an option! He had a good voice, but not a great one, he was no Great Caruso or Lanza! Frank would tell you that, if he were alive. What he had, was a great mind a lot of common knowledge and shouldn’t everyone, we could all learn from his example! God Bless, FAC
Dear Francis Albert Sinatra RIP. Say hello to Dino. You guys were the best
I never met Frank Sinatra. However I have a cute story. In the 1980’s I worked in a jazz club in DC founded by Charlie Byrd. The reservation phone ring. I answer it and the person said I be coming by in a hour. I need to be seated where’d I won’t be bothered. So I pick a semi secluded spot. Well the guy walks in with 2 massive bodyguards. I take them to the table. As they sit down I noticed the lettering on the back of the jacket the guy was wearing. Frank Sinatra Jr.
Ihave been a fan of his since I was a teenager; my two favorite songs are ALWAYS and PUY YOUR DREANS AWAY, his phraseing and emotion when he sings a song are unbelievable! I love all of his music from the 40’s; when he sang song, it was as if he was living it; there will never be another singer like him! He gave of his tine to fund raiers, and when yu were his friend, it was for life! My deepest condolences to his family, and especially his wiodow.
He was a prick. Good riddance.
To this day (and we’re approaching 2020) … whenever i need a pick me up …just play some of his great upbeat music … always does the trick! His entertainment legacy will live forever …
I was just putting together a playlist, which includes Frank Sinatra songs. I was born in 51′ and my parents listened to his music. It grabbed me even then and to this day my favorites are the Beatles and Frank Sinatra. I bought tickets to a concert in Denver the second they went on sale and was able to get seats next to his wife Barbara, who was with Gregory Peck and his wife. He was older then but his voice was still perfect and I didn’t even want to blink for fear I’d miss anything. It was amazing and my husband and I have been to many concerts but this was the best by far. This man had charisma like no other. Thank you for all your beautiful music, Mr Sinatra!
He was an Icon…The voice you can not forget….
I saw Frank Sinatra Jr do a concert with a 15 pc band, and I have to say, that if his name was Harry Smith, he would of had a good career as a singer.
I was singing All The Way at the exact time that Frank passed. As I was singing, his spirit went right through me. I got a standing ovation. People in attendance were calling me Frank and buying me drinks.
When I got home, my father informed me that Frank Sinatra had passed away. I asked him, when? He told me. It was exactly the time that I was performing, All The Way!
I loved him his voice was amazing he was my youth
What a voice and all around fabulous entertainer. I saw him once live in concert in Chicago at the end of his career and he was still mesmerizing. RIP FRANK. YOU ALWAYS DID IT YOUR WAY.
Why didn’t they put Frank in a better place not that ground? He was better than the ground. Mr.. Sinatra deserve better. Not that dame ground and dirt.
In-the-end, death equalizes us all…regardless of fame & fortune!
Sinatra no more matters after-his-death than he did when he was born. We come into this world…as we do…and we leave this world…as we did!
What does matter are contributions in excess of person and for Sinatra…his music still matters…not the person who sang it. It is Sinatra’s voice that still commands reconizition not the body.
His grave reflects his body not his accomplishments; hence, the gravesiteis adequate. Sinatra was known for his intelligence, personality or wisdom; he was known for his voice and elan with a melody.
No he was no Caruso as the man above said and no longer but with the voice he had high baritone when he was young middle to lower baritone when he was older as a song stylist of popular song and popular music he was Caruso personified the best they’ll never be another Frank even to this day in 2021 you can hear all the budding popular singers and everyone in somewhere other triceratum rip Frank I love you
I use to listen to frank sinatra all the time. I finally got to see him in Las Vegas. he was great I will never forget him I still listen to his tapes in my car
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