Franklin E. Morrison, affectionately known as Frank, passed away peacefully at his home in
Jacksonville, NC on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at the age of 69. He was born on Tuesday, September 27, 1955, in Charlton Heights, WV to the late Herbert Morrison and Mary (Kelley) Morrison. Frank led a life full of adventure, love, and service, leaving behind a legacy that will inspire those who knew him.
Frank lived his formative years in Charleston, WV. After high school, he proudly served in the United States Navy, where he earned a National Defense Service Medal, exemplifying his dedication to his country. After his service, he pursued an associate's degree in chemical science, which paved the way for his distinguished career at Dow Chemicals. With over 31 years of dedicated service, Frank was known for being a hard worker who took immense pride in his work while cultivating lasting friendships with his colleagues. He truly enjoyed his career path.
In his spare time, he enjoyed working on and repairing Volkswagens but most would just call this tinkering. He found solace in the simple pleasures of life whether horseback riding on his Aunt and Uncle's horse farm, walking along the beach collecting seashells, or enjoying a vacation on a cruise ship with a bloody-mary drink in hand, Frank embraced life with enthusiasm and gratitude. Rooted deeply in his Methodist faith, Frank was a man of principle and compassion. Above all, his family was his pride and joy, and he cherished every moment spent with them.
Left to cherish his memory is his loving wife, Drema (Letchford) Morrison; beloved daughter, Kristina Dooley, and her husband Jason of South Charleston, WV; stepdaughter, B.J. Musick and her husband, Ryan of Dry Creek, WV; stepsons, Brian Sharpless of
Jacksonville, NC, and Jonathan Sharpless and his wife, Kim of Beckley, WV.
He also leaves behind his grandchildren, Nikki Morrison, Morgan, Jaelyn and Kadyn Dooley; step-grandchildren, Samantha Cantley, Hunter Mclaine, Sierra Beaulieu, Andrew Sharpless, the ones who called him Paw-Paw Pretzel Destiny McGrady and Felicia Combs, great-grandchildren Brantlee, Blake, Arianna, and Kristian; and step-great-grandchildren Eleanor, Theo, Karson, Karlie Karmin, Tate, Miles, Kendrix and Kenlei.
He will be deeply missed by his sister, Clarissa Morrison of Chelyan, WV; niece, Heather Morrison; nephews, Bill and Shane Sigler, Shawn Morrison, Chris Morrison, and a host of caring friends who were touched by his kindness and warmth.
A celebration of Frank's life and legacy will be held at a later date, with details to be announced by the family.
Frank will be remembered as a happy-go-lucky person with a big heart, always ready with a smile and a story, never meeting a stranger he couldn't befriend. May he rest in peace.
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Coastal Cremations of Jacksonville is serving the family. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Franklin, please visit our floral store.