Willie Frank Crosby

Willie Frank Crosby, known as “Frank”, age 89, passed away Friday, July 5, 2019. Frank was born February 7, 1930 in Castleberry, Alabama to Lula Shephard and Roosevelt Crosby.  He was preceded in death by his parents, and brother, Benny Earl George and Stepfather, Henry Daniels, Sr., known as Mr.“Red”.   Frank spent most of his school years in Brewton until age seventeen. He was educated in the public school system in Brewton, Alabama. He was a good student who loved playing sports until his hip injury.  Frank met Juanita Johnson while living in Mobile, AL.  At the age of 21 they were married and later moved to Kansas City, Missouri in 1952. To this union they were blessed with two daughters, Kathy and Blondell. The marriage later dissolved after twelve years.  Frank moved back to Mobile, AL in 1962.  He was a hardworking and driven man that was blessed with great job opportunities throughout his life.  His love for fashion led him to employment at Metzger’s Brothers Men’s Clothing store in Mobile, AL. as a window dresser and later a salesman around 1960, but the best career choice and his last employment was his career in the insurance business. Frank worked for Christian Benevolent Insurance Co, which is now Atlanta Life Insurance.  There he excelled at his job where he received monthly/yearly trips, bonuses and awards.  He also assisted others looking to enter into the business and acquire skills to better their lives. The employment with both companies lasted a total of 20 years.  Frank later decided to move on with his personal life and found love again with Daisy Banks. The two later married and to this union they were blessed with two children, Terry and Kristen. The marriage later dissolved after sixteen years.  Frank later took on the role of caregiver to his loving and devoted mother when she developed Alzheimer. Frank had his own share of health issues but would never complain. He had to battle with a hip replacement and later slight lung issues. Even with those issues he was able to enjoy his many interests and hobbies of playing the clarinet, listening to jazz, attending live concerts, shooting pool, and playing golf and dominos. He was an avid reader and would spend many hours sitting outside enjoying the sunshine. Until his health began to fail, Frank lived with his son Terry, who provided him with care and assistance.  When Frank was no longer able to live at home he became a resident of Blue Ridge Health Care – Montrose Bay in 2018.  Frank leaves to cherish his memory, one brother, Henry Daniels, Jr., three daughters, Kathy Perkins of Overland Park, KS, Blondell Beard (Larry) of Lenexa, KS and Kirsten Crosby of Foley, AL, one son, Terry Crosby of Daphne, AL, four grandsons, Lawrence Beard (Kara) and Brannon Crosby, Jayson Pownall, Nicholas Nevills, two great-granddaughters, Elliana Beard & Olivia Beard along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and devoted friends.  Frank loved his children dearly and though sometimes hard on them, he always wanted the best for them. He was a beloved father, family man and friend who will be truly missed. A memorial celebration will be held on Friday, July 12, 2019 at Wolfe-Bayview Funeral Home & Crematory, 27409 U.S. Hwy. 98, Daphne, AL 36526. Visitation from 10:00 am to 11:00 am, Service from 11:00 am to noon.  Interment will follow at Jubilee Memorial Gardens, 27896 St. Hwy. 181, Daphne, AL 36526.   ARRANGEMENTS BY WOLFE-BAYVIEW FUNERAL HOMES & CREMATORY, INC. 27409 US HIGHWAY 98 DAPHNE, AL 36526 251-625-2900