Frank Healer
February 7, 1943 ~ June 8, 2022 (age 79)
Frank Healer, 79 of Potosi, Texas died at his home on June 8, 2022.
Visitation will be held at Cate-Spencer & Trent Funeral Home in Sweetwater on Sunday, June 12 from 5-7 pm.
Family burial at 10:00 am Monday, June 13, 2022 at Texas State Veterans Cemetery in Abilene Texas with the Dyess Air Force Honor Guard.
Memorial services will be 1:00 pm on Monday, June 13 at Potosi Baptist Church, 2826 Potosi Rd, Abilene, TX 79602 with Rev. Ben Wilson officiating.
Arrangements are under the direction of Cate-Spencer & Trent Funeral Home.
Frank was born on February 7, 1943, in Merkel, Texas to F.E. & Louise Cook Healer. He graduated from Newman High School in 1961. After graduation, Frank enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, stationed at Travis Air Force Base in California. He was honorably discharged in June 1965. Frank married Janice Hodges on August 27, 1965. While living in Sweetwater, their daughter Lori was born. The family moved to El Paso, Texas so Frank and Janice could attend University of Texas at El Paso. Their son, Larry, was born while living in El Paso.
Frank's career in radio and television began during high school at KXOX in Sweetwater, then KHEY radio in El Paso. The family moved to Roanoke, Texas when Frank accepted a job with WBAP radio in Ft. Worth. He later moved over to television with WBAP/KXAS as a reporter and anchorman. In 1979, the Healer family returned home to Sweetwater and Frank eventually accepted a position with KTAB in Abilene. Frank was the host of Big Country Reporter and started the Crime Stoppers program. He, along with Fran Adkins, were longtime co-hosts of NoonTab.
As his children were growing up, Frank attended numerous games, performances, and activities. He was the long- time stadium announcer for Sweetwater Mustang football games.
In 2008, Frank and Janice moved to Potosi, Texas. They joined Potosi Baptist Church where Frank served as a deacon.
Frank was predeceased by his parents, his brother James Healer, and his niece Hillary Davis.
Survivors include his wife Janice Healer of Potosi, daughter Lori Wilson (Brent) of Celina, son Larry Healer (Debra) of Sweetwater, grandchildren Payne Wilson (Siobhan) of McKinney, Parker Wilson of Stillwater, OK, Samuel Zambrano-Healer of Las Cruces, NM, Cassie Herrera (Moses) of Sweetwater. Great granddaughters, Emee, Lillie, & Gianna Herrera. Sisters, Janie Davis (Delbert) of Sweetwater, Anita Jones (Dearl) of Nolan, Becky Healer of Richardson, sister- in -law, Judy Healer of Greenville, brother- in -law Jerry Hodges (Shirley) of Snyder, numerous nieces and nephews, and special friend Maecee.
From online memorials, Cate-Spencer & Trent Funeral Home, Sweetwater, Texas
***************
The clock just tells me it's a new day. A new day...my first without either of my older brothers. Frank Healer, my eldest brother, went to be with Jesus. Yesterday, now, but it's still today, isn't it?
It's hard to believe that just a short 3 months ago, I had TWO brothers. Now I have NONE. James went to be with Jesus on March 19th following a hard fight with Covid. Frank passed away yesterday after an 8-year battle with Alzheimer's, ending with a 10-month battle with cancer. I'm thankful that they are both at peace with Jesus now.
Frank was my soul brother. For some reason, he, being the eldest brother, and I, being the eldest sister, were soul mates. We were so alike in so many ways, so not alike in others. He was tall at 6'3"...he got all the height being firstborn...he was born at 24" long and 11 lbs. in 1943. Yet we were alike in so many others. We could stay with friends and family, carry on conversations, but enough was enough. When we were done, we were done. We had a lot of the same viewpoints, a lot of the same values and thoughts, a great sense of humor and the ability (?) to speak our minds. He was better at expressing his thoughts than me, however, as he was pretty quiet, but spoke volumes with few words. I speak volumes with a lot of words!
He could leave you in stitches after telling a joke with a completely straight face, or could come up with some of the funniest "out loud" thoughts. He and I really enjoyed going to eat with our mates, Janice and Delbert (which we did as often as possible). The four of us made many a Mustang football game together when Lori was cheerleader and Larry was quarterback (in the late 70's and 80's). What stories we have!
Frank was a talented person...he was a master of all things he attempted. His first job was at the Texas Theatre here in Sweetwater, as was James'. They could make the best "suicide" sodas! He also was a disc jockey at KXOX during his high school years, being a 1961 graduate of Sweetwater High School. We lived by that radio on Saturday mornings when he might dedicate The Chipmunks' latest song to his "little sisters". Made our day!
His senior year in high school, he played the part of the father in the drama department's production of "Cheaper By the Dozen". He "died" at the end of that play and we girls (me and my two sisters, Anita & Becky), really thought he died! We were distraught! But we were so glad to see him when the play was over, even though Mom tried to explain to us that he really hadn't died. Mama, will you try that same explanation for me today, please?
He also drew cartoons for the school newspaper, The Pony Express, and his wonderful voice and handsome physical characteristics served him well as master of ceremonies in several functions during his lifetime.
He joined the Air Force right out of high school, a sad day for his siblings when he left for basic training at Lackland AFB. But we got to visit him there and were so happy to see him. From there, he went to Amarillo for his advanced training before ending up at Travis AFB in California where he worked on the flight line, re-fueled airplanes and was on standby during The Bay of Pigs (Cuban crisis). Oh, how I remember how hard we prayed that war would not come!
He was a handsome soldier. He stood tall, always proud of his service with the USAF, and never failed to be a "sharp dressed man"...slacks (or jeans, either) were always neat as a pin, if his shirt was a button-down, you can bet your life that the buttons, the belt buckle and the zipper all lined up straight as an arrow. He took great pride in his appearance, down to every hair on his head, almost never a hair out of place.
Fresh out of the Air Force in June of 1965, he married Janice (Hodges), a girl whom he had met at a church my dad pastored when they were only 8 or 10 years old. Their relationship was rekindled with help from my brother, James, and his girlfriend, Judy. They married in 1965 and were married 57 years when Frank passed away. I know Janice is going to miss him terribly. They were almost "joined at the hip", especially these past 8 years. She did a wonderful job of caring for him. Thank you, Janice. I love you, too!
During their marriage, they had two children, Lori & Larry, over whom I only recently relinquished my promise for guardianship should anything happen to Frank or Janice (family joke). Lori & Larry have long since married and have children of their own, all grown boys and very good boys at that. Lori's son, Payne, and Larry's son, Sam, have been here the past week during the last days of "Big Daddy's" life and have been soooo good to help out and comfort us girls. Another grandson, Parker, has been away assisting at a summer baseball camp. Big Daddy was so proud of all of them.
Frank's life was so interesting...he was a radio reporter in El Paso, Texas while working a 2nd job at the big movie theatre there. He met lots of famous movie stars during movie premieres they hosted at the theatre. He loved to tell those stories and loved to re-watch those movies!
He went from El Paso to DFW where he was a radio reporter and later news anchor for WBAP/KXAS radio/TV. His natural, great speaking voice and good looks opened many doors for him. After his years at KXAS, he came back home to Sweetwater and eventually took a job as news anchor at KTAB in Abilene. He and Fran Adkins hosted NoonTab, or as many called it "Frank & Fran". They were so good together and formed a lasting friendship. He loved to play jokes on her right before they went on the air so that she had to regain her composure quickly, just as the cameras started rolling.
Frank was good at anything he did...from son to brother, to husband, to father, to Big Daddy, to working within the Sweetwater Rifle & Pistol Club (& Gun & Coin Show), being a longtime Voice of the Sweetwater Mustangs when they played in the Bowl (ask Delbert, who spotted for him, what HIS main job was), he made the first "highlight video" during the 1980's run to the State Championship, to deacon at Potosi Baptist Church.
He was an artist in his own right, a Civil War buff (ask Lori & Larry how many forts they visited when they vacationed), an avid reader (speed reader), a photographer, a gun collector (they were "investments" as he explained to Janice each time a new one showed up) and no one could even attempt to beat him at Trivial Pursuit before Alzheimer's did its dirty job. He was so tickled when he got to send someone back "home" when we played Wahoo! He didn't think it was funny, though, if he was winning and Delbert "accidentally" hit the board and scattered all the marbles! He was also an excellent chili maker and griller!
It was so hard to tell him goodbye today (yesterday!). But I know that Hillary met her Uncle Frank and jumped right into his arms, welcoming him to that wonderful forever home where everything is beautiful and there are no more sorrows. She loved her Uncle Frank and he loved her, too.
Big brother, we're going to miss you...your dry wit, your tall, imposing presence, your grin, your desire to carry on, regardless of how limited Alzheimer's made some of your greatest assets. However, your greatest asset was just being you. Loving husband to Janice (who I promised you I would watch over), good father to Lori & Larry, awesome Big Daddy to Payne, Parker & Sam, great big brother to James, me, Anita & Becky, and friend to many.
I loved you then, I love you still, I'll love you forever. Rest in peace, Frank. Until we meet again, I love you this day!
Arrangements:
Visitation at Cate-Spencer & Trent Funeral Home in Sweetwater on Sunday, June 12th, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.
Family burial services at Texas State Veterans Cemetery in Abilene on Monday morning.
Memorial service at 1:00 p.m. Monday, June 13th, at Potosi Baptist Church.
Thank you all for your kind words...Janice is blown away by all the comments. She is so grateful, as are we all.
Janie / June 8, 2022
*****************
Note: Please do not ask me to edit his name to his birth name (Francis Marion Healer). He was not fond of it. It has been requested NOT to add it. And please do not create a 2nd memorial for his birth name. Thank you. JHD - 2022
*************
February 7, 1943 ~ June 8, 2022 (age 79)
Frank Healer, 79 of Potosi, Texas died at his home on June 8, 2022.
Visitation will be held at Cate-Spencer & Trent Funeral Home in Sweetwater on Sunday, June 12 from 5-7 pm.
Family burial at 10:00 am Monday, June 13, 2022 at Texas State Veterans Cemetery in Abilene Texas with the Dyess Air Force Honor Guard.
Memorial services will be 1:00 pm on Monday, June 13 at Potosi Baptist Church, 2826 Potosi Rd, Abilene, TX 79602 with Rev. Ben Wilson officiating.
Arrangements are under the direction of Cate-Spencer & Trent Funeral Home.
Frank was born on February 7, 1943, in Merkel, Texas to F.E. & Louise Cook Healer. He graduated from Newman High School in 1961. After graduation, Frank enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, stationed at Travis Air Force Base in California. He was honorably discharged in June 1965. Frank married Janice Hodges on August 27, 1965. While living in Sweetwater, their daughter Lori was born. The family moved to El Paso, Texas so Frank and Janice could attend University of Texas at El Paso. Their son, Larry, was born while living in El Paso.
Frank's career in radio and television began during high school at KXOX in Sweetwater, then KHEY radio in El Paso. The family moved to Roanoke, Texas when Frank accepted a job with WBAP radio in Ft. Worth. He later moved over to television with WBAP/KXAS as a reporter and anchorman. In 1979, the Healer family returned home to Sweetwater and Frank eventually accepted a position with KTAB in Abilene. Frank was the host of Big Country Reporter and started the Crime Stoppers program. He, along with Fran Adkins, were longtime co-hosts of NoonTab.
As his children were growing up, Frank attended numerous games, performances, and activities. He was the long- time stadium announcer for Sweetwater Mustang football games.
In 2008, Frank and Janice moved to Potosi, Texas. They joined Potosi Baptist Church where Frank served as a deacon.
Frank was predeceased by his parents, his brother James Healer, and his niece Hillary Davis.
Survivors include his wife Janice Healer of Potosi, daughter Lori Wilson (Brent) of Celina, son Larry Healer (Debra) of Sweetwater, grandchildren Payne Wilson (Siobhan) of McKinney, Parker Wilson of Stillwater, OK, Samuel Zambrano-Healer of Las Cruces, NM, Cassie Herrera (Moses) of Sweetwater. Great granddaughters, Emee, Lillie, & Gianna Herrera. Sisters, Janie Davis (Delbert) of Sweetwater, Anita Jones (Dearl) of Nolan, Becky Healer of Richardson, sister- in -law, Judy Healer of Greenville, brother- in -law Jerry Hodges (Shirley) of Snyder, numerous nieces and nephews, and special friend Maecee.
From online memorials, Cate-Spencer & Trent Funeral Home, Sweetwater, Texas
***************
The clock just tells me it's a new day. A new day...my first without either of my older brothers. Frank Healer, my eldest brother, went to be with Jesus. Yesterday, now, but it's still today, isn't it?
It's hard to believe that just a short 3 months ago, I had TWO brothers. Now I have NONE. James went to be with Jesus on March 19th following a hard fight with Covid. Frank passed away yesterday after an 8-year battle with Alzheimer's, ending with a 10-month battle with cancer. I'm thankful that they are both at peace with Jesus now.
Frank was my soul brother. For some reason, he, being the eldest brother, and I, being the eldest sister, were soul mates. We were so alike in so many ways, so not alike in others. He was tall at 6'3"...he got all the height being firstborn...he was born at 24" long and 11 lbs. in 1943. Yet we were alike in so many others. We could stay with friends and family, carry on conversations, but enough was enough. When we were done, we were done. We had a lot of the same viewpoints, a lot of the same values and thoughts, a great sense of humor and the ability (?) to speak our minds. He was better at expressing his thoughts than me, however, as he was pretty quiet, but spoke volumes with few words. I speak volumes with a lot of words!
He could leave you in stitches after telling a joke with a completely straight face, or could come up with some of the funniest "out loud" thoughts. He and I really enjoyed going to eat with our mates, Janice and Delbert (which we did as often as possible). The four of us made many a Mustang football game together when Lori was cheerleader and Larry was quarterback (in the late 70's and 80's). What stories we have!
Frank was a talented person...he was a master of all things he attempted. His first job was at the Texas Theatre here in Sweetwater, as was James'. They could make the best "suicide" sodas! He also was a disc jockey at KXOX during his high school years, being a 1961 graduate of Sweetwater High School. We lived by that radio on Saturday mornings when he might dedicate The Chipmunks' latest song to his "little sisters". Made our day!
His senior year in high school, he played the part of the father in the drama department's production of "Cheaper By the Dozen". He "died" at the end of that play and we girls (me and my two sisters, Anita & Becky), really thought he died! We were distraught! But we were so glad to see him when the play was over, even though Mom tried to explain to us that he really hadn't died. Mama, will you try that same explanation for me today, please?
He also drew cartoons for the school newspaper, The Pony Express, and his wonderful voice and handsome physical characteristics served him well as master of ceremonies in several functions during his lifetime.
He joined the Air Force right out of high school, a sad day for his siblings when he left for basic training at Lackland AFB. But we got to visit him there and were so happy to see him. From there, he went to Amarillo for his advanced training before ending up at Travis AFB in California where he worked on the flight line, re-fueled airplanes and was on standby during The Bay of Pigs (Cuban crisis). Oh, how I remember how hard we prayed that war would not come!
He was a handsome soldier. He stood tall, always proud of his service with the USAF, and never failed to be a "sharp dressed man"...slacks (or jeans, either) were always neat as a pin, if his shirt was a button-down, you can bet your life that the buttons, the belt buckle and the zipper all lined up straight as an arrow. He took great pride in his appearance, down to every hair on his head, almost never a hair out of place.
Fresh out of the Air Force in June of 1965, he married Janice (Hodges), a girl whom he had met at a church my dad pastored when they were only 8 or 10 years old. Their relationship was rekindled with help from my brother, James, and his girlfriend, Judy. They married in 1965 and were married 57 years when Frank passed away. I know Janice is going to miss him terribly. They were almost "joined at the hip", especially these past 8 years. She did a wonderful job of caring for him. Thank you, Janice. I love you, too!
During their marriage, they had two children, Lori & Larry, over whom I only recently relinquished my promise for guardianship should anything happen to Frank or Janice (family joke). Lori & Larry have long since married and have children of their own, all grown boys and very good boys at that. Lori's son, Payne, and Larry's son, Sam, have been here the past week during the last days of "Big Daddy's" life and have been soooo good to help out and comfort us girls. Another grandson, Parker, has been away assisting at a summer baseball camp. Big Daddy was so proud of all of them.
Frank's life was so interesting...he was a radio reporter in El Paso, Texas while working a 2nd job at the big movie theatre there. He met lots of famous movie stars during movie premieres they hosted at the theatre. He loved to tell those stories and loved to re-watch those movies!
He went from El Paso to DFW where he was a radio reporter and later news anchor for WBAP/KXAS radio/TV. His natural, great speaking voice and good looks opened many doors for him. After his years at KXAS, he came back home to Sweetwater and eventually took a job as news anchor at KTAB in Abilene. He and Fran Adkins hosted NoonTab, or as many called it "Frank & Fran". They were so good together and formed a lasting friendship. He loved to play jokes on her right before they went on the air so that she had to regain her composure quickly, just as the cameras started rolling.
Frank was good at anything he did...from son to brother, to husband, to father, to Big Daddy, to working within the Sweetwater Rifle & Pistol Club (& Gun & Coin Show), being a longtime Voice of the Sweetwater Mustangs when they played in the Bowl (ask Delbert, who spotted for him, what HIS main job was), he made the first "highlight video" during the 1980's run to the State Championship, to deacon at Potosi Baptist Church.
He was an artist in his own right, a Civil War buff (ask Lori & Larry how many forts they visited when they vacationed), an avid reader (speed reader), a photographer, a gun collector (they were "investments" as he explained to Janice each time a new one showed up) and no one could even attempt to beat him at Trivial Pursuit before Alzheimer's did its dirty job. He was so tickled when he got to send someone back "home" when we played Wahoo! He didn't think it was funny, though, if he was winning and Delbert "accidentally" hit the board and scattered all the marbles! He was also an excellent chili maker and griller!
It was so hard to tell him goodbye today (yesterday!). But I know that Hillary met her Uncle Frank and jumped right into his arms, welcoming him to that wonderful forever home where everything is beautiful and there are no more sorrows. She loved her Uncle Frank and he loved her, too.
Big brother, we're going to miss you...your dry wit, your tall, imposing presence, your grin, your desire to carry on, regardless of how limited Alzheimer's made some of your greatest assets. However, your greatest asset was just being you. Loving husband to Janice (who I promised you I would watch over), good father to Lori & Larry, awesome Big Daddy to Payne, Parker & Sam, great big brother to James, me, Anita & Becky, and friend to many.
I loved you then, I love you still, I'll love you forever. Rest in peace, Frank. Until we meet again, I love you this day!
Arrangements:
Visitation at Cate-Spencer & Trent Funeral Home in Sweetwater on Sunday, June 12th, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.
Family burial services at Texas State Veterans Cemetery in Abilene on Monday morning.
Memorial service at 1:00 p.m. Monday, June 13th, at Potosi Baptist Church.
Thank you all for your kind words...Janice is blown away by all the comments. She is so grateful, as are we all.
Janie / June 8, 2022
*****************
Note: Please do not ask me to edit his name to his birth name (Francis Marion Healer). He was not fond of it. It has been requested NOT to add it. And please do not create a 2nd memorial for his birth name. Thank you. JHD - 2022
*************
Frank Healer
February 7, 1943 ~ June 8, 2022 (age 79)
Frank Healer, 79 of Potosi, Texas died at his home on June 8, 2022.
Visitation will be held at Cate-Spencer & Trent Funeral Home in Sweetwater on Sunday, June 12 from 5-7 pm.
Family burial at 10:00 am Monday, June 13, 2022 at Texas State Veterans Cemetery in Abilene Texas with the Dyess Air Force Honor Guard.
Memorial services will be 1:00 pm on Monday, June 13 at Potosi Baptist Church, 2826 Potosi Rd, Abilene, TX 79602 with Rev. Ben Wilson officiating.
Arrangements are under the direction of Cate-Spencer & Trent Funeral Home.
Frank was born on February 7, 1943, in Merkel, Texas to F.E. & Louise Cook Healer. He graduated from Newman High School in 1961. After graduation, Frank enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, stationed at Travis Air Force Base in California. He was honorably discharged in June 1965. Frank married Janice Hodges on August 27, 1965. While living in Sweetwater, their daughter Lori was born. The family moved to El Paso, Texas so Frank and Janice could attend University of Texas at El Paso. Their son, Larry, was born while living in El Paso.
Frank's career in radio and television began during high school at KXOX in Sweetwater, then KHEY radio in El Paso. The family moved to Roanoke, Texas when Frank accepted a job with WBAP radio in Ft. Worth. He later moved over to television with WBAP/KXAS as a reporter and anchorman. In 1979, the Healer family returned home to Sweetwater and Frank eventually accepted a position with KTAB in Abilene. Frank was the host of Big Country Reporter and started the Crime Stoppers program. He, along with Fran Adkins, were longtime co-hosts of NoonTab.
As his children were growing up, Frank attended numerous games, performances, and activities. He was the long- time stadium announcer for Sweetwater Mustang football games.
In 2008, Frank and Janice moved to Potosi, Texas. They joined Potosi Baptist Church where Frank served as a deacon.
Frank was predeceased by his parents, his brother James Healer, and his niece Hillary Davis.
Survivors include his wife Janice Healer of Potosi, daughter Lori Wilson (Brent) of Celina, son Larry Healer (Debra) of Sweetwater, grandchildren Payne Wilson (Siobhan) of McKinney, Parker Wilson of Stillwater, OK, Samuel Zambrano-Healer of Las Cruces, NM, Cassie Herrera (Moses) of Sweetwater. Great granddaughters, Emee, Lillie, & Gianna Herrera. Sisters, Janie Davis (Delbert) of Sweetwater, Anita Jones (Dearl) of Nolan, Becky Healer of Richardson, sister- in -law, Judy Healer of Greenville, brother- in -law Jerry Hodges (Shirley) of Snyder, numerous nieces and nephews, and special friend Maecee.
From online memorials, Cate-Spencer & Trent Funeral Home, Sweetwater, Texas
***************
The clock just tells me it's a new day. A new day...my first without either of my older brothers. Frank Healer, my eldest brother, went to be with Jesus. Yesterday, now, but it's still today, isn't it?
It's hard to believe that just a short 3 months ago, I had TWO brothers. Now I have NONE. James went to be with Jesus on March 19th following a hard fight with Covid. Frank passed away yesterday after an 8-year battle with Alzheimer's, ending with a 10-month battle with cancer. I'm thankful that they are both at peace with Jesus now.
Frank was my soul brother. For some reason, he, being the eldest brother, and I, being the eldest sister, were soul mates. We were so alike in so many ways, so not alike in others. He was tall at 6'3"...he got all the height being firstborn...he was born at 24" long and 11 lbs. in 1943. Yet we were alike in so many others. We could stay with friends and family, carry on conversations, but enough was enough. When we were done, we were done. We had a lot of the same viewpoints, a lot of the same values and thoughts, a great sense of humor and the ability (?) to speak our minds. He was better at expressing his thoughts than me, however, as he was pretty quiet, but spoke volumes with few words. I speak volumes with a lot of words!
He could leave you in stitches after telling a joke with a completely straight face, or could come up with some of the funniest "out loud" thoughts. He and I really enjoyed going to eat with our mates, Janice and Delbert (which we did as often as possible). The four of us made many a Mustang football game together when Lori was cheerleader and Larry was quarterback (in the late 70's and 80's). What stories we have!
Frank was a talented person...he was a master of all things he attempted. His first job was at the Texas Theatre here in Sweetwater, as was James'. They could make the best "suicide" sodas! He also was a disc jockey at KXOX during his high school years, being a 1961 graduate of Sweetwater High School. We lived by that radio on Saturday mornings when he might dedicate The Chipmunks' latest song to his "little sisters". Made our day!
His senior year in high school, he played the part of the father in the drama department's production of "Cheaper By the Dozen". He "died" at the end of that play and we girls (me and my two sisters, Anita & Becky), really thought he died! We were distraught! But we were so glad to see him when the play was over, even though Mom tried to explain to us that he really hadn't died. Mama, will you try that same explanation for me today, please?
He also drew cartoons for the school newspaper, The Pony Express, and his wonderful voice and handsome physical characteristics served him well as master of ceremonies in several functions during his lifetime.
He joined the Air Force right out of high school, a sad day for his siblings when he left for basic training at Lackland AFB. But we got to visit him there and were so happy to see him. From there, he went to Amarillo for his advanced training before ending up at Travis AFB in California where he worked on the flight line, re-fueled airplanes and was on standby during The Bay of Pigs (Cuban crisis). Oh, how I remember how hard we prayed that war would not come!
He was a handsome soldier. He stood tall, always proud of his service with the USAF, and never failed to be a "sharp dressed man"...slacks (or jeans, either) were always neat as a pin, if his shirt was a button-down, you can bet your life that the buttons, the belt buckle and the zipper all lined up straight as an arrow. He took great pride in his appearance, down to every hair on his head, almost never a hair out of place.
Fresh out of the Air Force in June of 1965, he married Janice (Hodges), a girl whom he had met at a church my dad pastored when they were only 8 or 10 years old. Their relationship was rekindled with help from my brother, James, and his girlfriend, Judy. They married in 1965 and were married 57 years when Frank passed away. I know Janice is going to miss him terribly. They were almost "joined at the hip", especially these past 8 years. She did a wonderful job of caring for him. Thank you, Janice. I love you, too!
During their marriage, they had two children, Lori & Larry, over whom I only recently relinquished my promise for guardianship should anything happen to Frank or Janice (family joke). Lori & Larry have long since married and have children of their own, all grown boys and very good boys at that. Lori's son, Payne, and Larry's son, Sam, have been here the past week during the last days of "Big Daddy's" life and have been soooo good to help out and comfort us girls. Another grandson, Parker, has been away assisting at a summer baseball camp. Big Daddy was so proud of all of them.
Frank's life was so interesting...he was a radio reporter in El Paso, Texas while working a 2nd job at the big movie theatre there. He met lots of famous movie stars during movie premieres they hosted at the theatre. He loved to tell those stories and loved to re-watch those movies!
He went from El Paso to DFW where he was a radio reporter and later news anchor for WBAP/KXAS radio/TV. His natural, great speaking voice and good looks opened many doors for him. After his years at KXAS, he came back home to Sweetwater and eventually took a job as news anchor at KTAB in Abilene. He and Fran Adkins hosted NoonTab, or as many called it "Frank & Fran". They were so good together and formed a lasting friendship. He loved to play jokes on her right before they went on the air so that she had to regain her composure quickly, just as the cameras started rolling.
Frank was good at anything he did...from son to brother, to husband, to father, to Big Daddy, to working within the Sweetwater Rifle & Pistol Club (& Gun & Coin Show), being a longtime Voice of the Sweetwater Mustangs when they played in the Bowl (ask Delbert, who spotted for him, what HIS main job was), he made the first "highlight video" during the 1980's run to the State Championship, to deacon at Potosi Baptist Church.
He was an artist in his own right, a Civil War buff (ask Lori & Larry how many forts they visited when they vacationed), an avid reader (speed reader), a photographer, a gun collector (they were "investments" as he explained to Janice each time a new one showed up) and no one could even attempt to beat him at Trivial Pursuit before Alzheimer's did its dirty job. He was so tickled when he got to send someone back "home" when we played Wahoo! He didn't think it was funny, though, if he was winning and Delbert "accidentally" hit the board and scattered all the marbles! He was also an excellent chili maker and griller!
It was so hard to tell him goodbye today (yesterday!). But I know that Hillary met her Uncle Frank and jumped right into his arms, welcoming him to that wonderful forever home where everything is beautiful and there are no more sorrows. She loved her Uncle Frank and he loved her, too.
Big brother, we're going to miss you...your dry wit, your tall, imposing presence, your grin, your desire to carry on, regardless of how limited Alzheimer's made some of your greatest assets. However, your greatest asset was just being you. Loving husband to Janice (who I promised you I would watch over), good father to Lori & Larry, awesome Big Daddy to Payne, Parker & Sam, great big brother to James, me, Anita & Becky, and friend to many.
I loved you then, I love you still, I'll love you forever. Rest in peace, Frank. Until we meet again, I love you this day!
Arrangements:
Visitation at Cate-Spencer & Trent Funeral Home in Sweetwater on Sunday, June 12th, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.
Family burial services at Texas State Veterans Cemetery in Abilene on Monday morning.
Memorial service at 1:00 p.m. Monday, June 13th, at Potosi Baptist Church.
Thank you all for your kind words...Janice is blown away by all the comments. She is so grateful, as are we all.
Janie / June 8, 2022
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Note: Please do not ask me to edit his name to his birth name (Francis Marion Healer). He was not fond of it. It has been requested NOT to add it. And please do not create a 2nd memorial for his birth name. Thank you. JHD - 2022
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February 7, 1943 ~ June 8, 2022 (age 79)
Frank Healer, 79 of Potosi, Texas died at his home on June 8, 2022.
Visitation will be held at Cate-Spencer & Trent Funeral Home in Sweetwater on Sunday, June 12 from 5-7 pm.
Family burial at 10:00 am Monday, June 13, 2022 at Texas State Veterans Cemetery in Abilene Texas with the Dyess Air Force Honor Guard.
Memorial services will be 1:00 pm on Monday, June 13 at Potosi Baptist Church, 2826 Potosi Rd, Abilene, TX 79602 with Rev. Ben Wilson officiating.
Arrangements are under the direction of Cate-Spencer & Trent Funeral Home.
Frank was born on February 7, 1943, in Merkel, Texas to F.E. & Louise Cook Healer. He graduated from Newman High School in 1961. After graduation, Frank enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, stationed at Travis Air Force Base in California. He was honorably discharged in June 1965. Frank married Janice Hodges on August 27, 1965. While living in Sweetwater, their daughter Lori was born. The family moved to El Paso, Texas so Frank and Janice could attend University of Texas at El Paso. Their son, Larry, was born while living in El Paso.
Frank's career in radio and television began during high school at KXOX in Sweetwater, then KHEY radio in El Paso. The family moved to Roanoke, Texas when Frank accepted a job with WBAP radio in Ft. Worth. He later moved over to television with WBAP/KXAS as a reporter and anchorman. In 1979, the Healer family returned home to Sweetwater and Frank eventually accepted a position with KTAB in Abilene. Frank was the host of Big Country Reporter and started the Crime Stoppers program. He, along with Fran Adkins, were longtime co-hosts of NoonTab.
As his children were growing up, Frank attended numerous games, performances, and activities. He was the long- time stadium announcer for Sweetwater Mustang football games.
In 2008, Frank and Janice moved to Potosi, Texas. They joined Potosi Baptist Church where Frank served as a deacon.
Frank was predeceased by his parents, his brother James Healer, and his niece Hillary Davis.
Survivors include his wife Janice Healer of Potosi, daughter Lori Wilson (Brent) of Celina, son Larry Healer (Debra) of Sweetwater, grandchildren Payne Wilson (Siobhan) of McKinney, Parker Wilson of Stillwater, OK, Samuel Zambrano-Healer of Las Cruces, NM, Cassie Herrera (Moses) of Sweetwater. Great granddaughters, Emee, Lillie, & Gianna Herrera. Sisters, Janie Davis (Delbert) of Sweetwater, Anita Jones (Dearl) of Nolan, Becky Healer of Richardson, sister- in -law, Judy Healer of Greenville, brother- in -law Jerry Hodges (Shirley) of Snyder, numerous nieces and nephews, and special friend Maecee.
From online memorials, Cate-Spencer & Trent Funeral Home, Sweetwater, Texas
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The clock just tells me it's a new day. A new day...my first without either of my older brothers. Frank Healer, my eldest brother, went to be with Jesus. Yesterday, now, but it's still today, isn't it?
It's hard to believe that just a short 3 months ago, I had TWO brothers. Now I have NONE. James went to be with Jesus on March 19th following a hard fight with Covid. Frank passed away yesterday after an 8-year battle with Alzheimer's, ending with a 10-month battle with cancer. I'm thankful that they are both at peace with Jesus now.
Frank was my soul brother. For some reason, he, being the eldest brother, and I, being the eldest sister, were soul mates. We were so alike in so many ways, so not alike in others. He was tall at 6'3"...he got all the height being firstborn...he was born at 24" long and 11 lbs. in 1943. Yet we were alike in so many others. We could stay with friends and family, carry on conversations, but enough was enough. When we were done, we were done. We had a lot of the same viewpoints, a lot of the same values and thoughts, a great sense of humor and the ability (?) to speak our minds. He was better at expressing his thoughts than me, however, as he was pretty quiet, but spoke volumes with few words. I speak volumes with a lot of words!
He could leave you in stitches after telling a joke with a completely straight face, or could come up with some of the funniest "out loud" thoughts. He and I really enjoyed going to eat with our mates, Janice and Delbert (which we did as often as possible). The four of us made many a Mustang football game together when Lori was cheerleader and Larry was quarterback (in the late 70's and 80's). What stories we have!
Frank was a talented person...he was a master of all things he attempted. His first job was at the Texas Theatre here in Sweetwater, as was James'. They could make the best "suicide" sodas! He also was a disc jockey at KXOX during his high school years, being a 1961 graduate of Sweetwater High School. We lived by that radio on Saturday mornings when he might dedicate The Chipmunks' latest song to his "little sisters". Made our day!
His senior year in high school, he played the part of the father in the drama department's production of "Cheaper By the Dozen". He "died" at the end of that play and we girls (me and my two sisters, Anita & Becky), really thought he died! We were distraught! But we were so glad to see him when the play was over, even though Mom tried to explain to us that he really hadn't died. Mama, will you try that same explanation for me today, please?
He also drew cartoons for the school newspaper, The Pony Express, and his wonderful voice and handsome physical characteristics served him well as master of ceremonies in several functions during his lifetime.
He joined the Air Force right out of high school, a sad day for his siblings when he left for basic training at Lackland AFB. But we got to visit him there and were so happy to see him. From there, he went to Amarillo for his advanced training before ending up at Travis AFB in California where he worked on the flight line, re-fueled airplanes and was on standby during The Bay of Pigs (Cuban crisis). Oh, how I remember how hard we prayed that war would not come!
He was a handsome soldier. He stood tall, always proud of his service with the USAF, and never failed to be a "sharp dressed man"...slacks (or jeans, either) were always neat as a pin, if his shirt was a button-down, you can bet your life that the buttons, the belt buckle and the zipper all lined up straight as an arrow. He took great pride in his appearance, down to every hair on his head, almost never a hair out of place.
Fresh out of the Air Force in June of 1965, he married Janice (Hodges), a girl whom he had met at a church my dad pastored when they were only 8 or 10 years old. Their relationship was rekindled with help from my brother, James, and his girlfriend, Judy. They married in 1965 and were married 57 years when Frank passed away. I know Janice is going to miss him terribly. They were almost "joined at the hip", especially these past 8 years. She did a wonderful job of caring for him. Thank you, Janice. I love you, too!
During their marriage, they had two children, Lori & Larry, over whom I only recently relinquished my promise for guardianship should anything happen to Frank or Janice (family joke). Lori & Larry have long since married and have children of their own, all grown boys and very good boys at that. Lori's son, Payne, and Larry's son, Sam, have been here the past week during the last days of "Big Daddy's" life and have been soooo good to help out and comfort us girls. Another grandson, Parker, has been away assisting at a summer baseball camp. Big Daddy was so proud of all of them.
Frank's life was so interesting...he was a radio reporter in El Paso, Texas while working a 2nd job at the big movie theatre there. He met lots of famous movie stars during movie premieres they hosted at the theatre. He loved to tell those stories and loved to re-watch those movies!
He went from El Paso to DFW where he was a radio reporter and later news anchor for WBAP/KXAS radio/TV. His natural, great speaking voice and good looks opened many doors for him. After his years at KXAS, he came back home to Sweetwater and eventually took a job as news anchor at KTAB in Abilene. He and Fran Adkins hosted NoonTab, or as many called it "Frank & Fran". They were so good together and formed a lasting friendship. He loved to play jokes on her right before they went on the air so that she had to regain her composure quickly, just as the cameras started rolling.
Frank was good at anything he did...from son to brother, to husband, to father, to Big Daddy, to working within the Sweetwater Rifle & Pistol Club (& Gun & Coin Show), being a longtime Voice of the Sweetwater Mustangs when they played in the Bowl (ask Delbert, who spotted for him, what HIS main job was), he made the first "highlight video" during the 1980's run to the State Championship, to deacon at Potosi Baptist Church.
He was an artist in his own right, a Civil War buff (ask Lori & Larry how many forts they visited when they vacationed), an avid reader (speed reader), a photographer, a gun collector (they were "investments" as he explained to Janice each time a new one showed up) and no one could even attempt to beat him at Trivial Pursuit before Alzheimer's did its dirty job. He was so tickled when he got to send someone back "home" when we played Wahoo! He didn't think it was funny, though, if he was winning and Delbert "accidentally" hit the board and scattered all the marbles! He was also an excellent chili maker and griller!
It was so hard to tell him goodbye today (yesterday!). But I know that Hillary met her Uncle Frank and jumped right into his arms, welcoming him to that wonderful forever home where everything is beautiful and there are no more sorrows. She loved her Uncle Frank and he loved her, too.
Big brother, we're going to miss you...your dry wit, your tall, imposing presence, your grin, your desire to carry on, regardless of how limited Alzheimer's made some of your greatest assets. However, your greatest asset was just being you. Loving husband to Janice (who I promised you I would watch over), good father to Lori & Larry, awesome Big Daddy to Payne, Parker & Sam, great big brother to James, me, Anita & Becky, and friend to many.
I loved you then, I love you still, I'll love you forever. Rest in peace, Frank. Until we meet again, I love you this day!
Arrangements:
Visitation at Cate-Spencer & Trent Funeral Home in Sweetwater on Sunday, June 12th, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.
Family burial services at Texas State Veterans Cemetery in Abilene on Monday morning.
Memorial service at 1:00 p.m. Monday, June 13th, at Potosi Baptist Church.
Thank you all for your kind words...Janice is blown away by all the comments. She is so grateful, as are we all.
Janie / June 8, 2022
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Note: Please do not ask me to edit his name to his birth name (Francis Marion Healer). He was not fond of it. It has been requested NOT to add it. And please do not create a 2nd memorial for his birth name. Thank you. JHD - 2022
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