Frank Clary, age 87, departed his earthly journey to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Sunday, July 27, 2014.
He was born on March 25, 1927 in Brunswick County, Virginia to James Robert and Beulah Blanton Clary.
He served in the US Navy on the USS Sheridan during WWII. He was a dedicated employee of the former Albermarle Paper Company in Roanoke Rapids for 34 years. He held the position of Pulp Mill Superintendent when he retired in 1986 from Champion International.
He was a dedicated follower of Jesus Christ and was a member of Calvary Baptist Church. He enjoyed gardening and squirrel hunting with the many squirrel dogs he owned. He dedicated most of his life to helping other people who could not do for themselves. He cared for other people before even caring for himself. He also loved growing vegetables and sharing them with people in need. He was a long time member of the Davie Lions Club. He was a regular visitor at the local hospital and all of the nursing homes. He truly loved everyone.
His parents preceded him in death, as did his brothers Emmett Clary, Thomas Clary, and Sidney Clary, and his sisters Sarah Jones, Janie Johnson, Thelma Parrish, and Salaize Blanton.
Surviving are his devoted wife of 67 years, Velnor Rose Clary; his loving children: Frank Clary Jr. and wife, Page; David Clary and wife, Betty; Kathy Ogburn and husband, Gary; and Timothy Clary and wife, Robin; all of Roanoke Rapids. Also surviving are his grandchildren Dale Clary, Tony Clary, April Williams, Amy Harden, Jonathan Ogburn, Brian Clary, Justin Ogburn, Chris Clary, and Aaron Ogburn, and 13 great grandchildren; and twin sister Frances Tolbert of Gaston.
A celebration of his life will be held on Wednesday July 30, 2014 at 2:00pm at Calvary Baptist Church, with burial in Cederwood Cemetery immediately following.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 29, 2014 from 6:30 to 8:30 pm at Hockaday Funeral Home in Roanoke Rapids and other times in the family home at 424 Reynolds Circle, Roanoke Rapids.
Flowers are accepted or a memorial contribution can be made in lieu of flowers. Contributions can be sent to Davie Lions Club care of 36 Marvin Street, Roanoke Rapids.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to Community Home Care and Hospice and four special angels: Debra Miller, Jackie Thompson, Brenda Alston, and Chaplain Roy Porter.