Obituary, Robert (Bob) Martin Cheney

Cheney, Robert (Bob) Martin, born 15 Aug 1928 in Montgomery, AL, died August 8, 2013 after a short battle with cancer. Visitation will be Friday, August 9th from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. at Whitfield Memorial United Methodist Church. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, August 10th at 9:00 a.m. at the church. Interment will follow at Greenwood Cemetery.

Bob is survived by his wife, Margaret Ann Hatchett Cheney and three children, Robert Martin Cheney, Jr. (Karen Singletary), Elizabeth Cheney Sewell (William Hulsey, Jr.) and John Franklin Cheney (Debbie White). He is also survived by four grandchildren, Shannon Cheney Phillips (Chris), Benjamin Garrett Cheney (Jordy Allen), Garrett Franklin Cheney (Christine Callahan), and Paige Cheney Clement (Neil) and his sister, Margaret Cheney Collier.

Bob graduated from the Mount Berry School for Boys in Rome, GA. In July 1946 during World War II, he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps and served three years. He re-enlisted in 1951 and served during the Korean conflict until 1952, attaining the rank of Sergeant. His squadron VMF223 was attached to USS Franklin D. Roosevelt, USS Tarawa, and USS Midway. He graduated from Auburn University in Business Administration in 1954 and was employed by Alabama Farm Bureau Insurance Company, which later became Alfa Insurance Companies. He retired as vice president after 41 years.

Bob was active in many historical/genealogy organizations. He was State President of Sons of the American Revolution and Governor of the Alabama Company of the Jamestowne Society. He was also President of the Richard Montgomery Chapter SAR, the Montgomery Genealogy Society, and the Old South Historical Society. Additionally, Bob was a member of the Sons of the American Colonists, Sons and Daughters of the Pilgrims, Somerset Chapter Magna Charta Barons, Huguenot Society, Order of the Crown (Charlemagne Descendants), National Society Sons of the War of 1812, Merovingian Dynasty, Sons of Spanish American War Veterans, Society of Descendants of the Most Noble Order of the Garter, Military Order of the Crusades, Society of Descendants of Washington’s Army at Valley Forge, and Sons of the Colonial Wars.

Bob was also involved in various civic activities. After serving over 35 years ago for two consecutive terms as the District Governor of Civitan International Alabama – West Florida District, in 2011 Bob again served as president of the Montgomery Civitan Club. He was active in this club for over 50 years Bob was also Commandant of the Townsend Chapter of the Marine Corps League, and President of Montgomery Knife and Fork Club. A member of the Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity, he served for 22 years as chapter counselor for the Alabama Epsilon Chapter at Auburn University Montgomery and was awarded the Order of the Golden Heart, the highest national award for volunteer service to Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity.

Involved with his children’s activities, he served as PTA president of and officer in Little League Baseball and participated in Boy Scouts of America for 25 years as Cub Master, Scout Master, and District Commissioner. Formerly an active member of the Capitol Heights United Methodist Church where he was a lay leader, in 2011 Bob joined Whitfield Memorial United Methodist Church, where he was a Sunday School teacher and on the Board of Trustees.

After retirement, Bob worked as a volunteer at Baptist South for over 16 years and served many years as a volunteer on the Pre-Trial Diversion Committee. Additionally, Bob and Ann were Goodwill Ambassadors for 50 classes of International Officers in the IOS Program at Maxwell AFB.

In lieu of flowers, the family is asking that contributions be made to the Robert Cheney Memorial Fund, Whitfield Memorial United Methodist Church or the charity of your choice.
Published in the Montgomery Advertiser on Aug. 9, 2013
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Obituary, James M. Stuart

STUART, Jr. James M. Stuart, James M., Jr., 5/2/26 – 6/29/13. Of Lady Lake, FL., formerly of the Dayton Area. Mr. Stuart was a United States Navy veteran where he proudly served in WWII aboard the USS Franklin, an aircraft carrier which was attacked and nearly sunk in the Pacific Ocean. During his working career his employment consisted of jobs at McCalls, Dayton Power & Light; he owned and operated Fisher Beverage Co., and finally worked as an investment broker with AXA Advisors until 2000. James was very proud of his service at the White House while he worked from 1968-1970 for the National Alliance of Business Men. He also donated much of his time to the Boys & Girls Club of Dayton, where he was a past Director. James was preceded in death by his parents, James & Delores (Walker) Stuart. He is survived by his wife, Janet; two sons, James & Melinda of Springboro, William & Patricia of Springboro; his grandchildren, James (& Lauren), Patrick, Meghan, Ashley (& Wilder), Joshua; great-grandson, Landon James; brothers, Curtiss & MaryJane of Fairhope, AL, and Charles & Linda of Washington Township. Funeral Services with military honors will be private. Mr. Stuart will be buried in David’s Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Boys & Girls Club of Dayton. Arrangements by The Westbrock Funeral Home, Bigger Road Chapel.

Published in Dayton Daily News on July 28, 2013

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Obituary, James Cornelius Johnson

James Cornelius Johnson December 2, 1921 June 16, 2013 James Cornelius Johnson, world’s best dad, died on Father’s Day, June 16, 2013 supported by family and caring staff of Buckner Villas Nursing Home. Jim, known affectionately as “Uncle Toot”, was born at home in Houston, Missouri, the fourth of seven children. The Johnson farmstead in Licking, Missouri remained a cherished family gathering spot through the early 1980s, with Grandma Johnson at the helm. Jim shared the country rhythms he knew and loved with his children-digging in the compost for worms, pole fishing in the back pond, hunting quail, picking wild dewberries, saddling up Tex the pony, tubing down Boiling Springs. Jim received his chemical engineering degree from Rolla School of Mines in 1943. After graduation, he worked for Monsanto Chemical Company and then enlisted in the US Navy to fight in World War II. He served on navy vessels LST 783, LSM 238, and the aircraft carrier USS Franklin (Big Ben), working as a navigator, gunnery officer, and commanding officer. On March 19, 1945 the carrier was engaged in a strike in Kobe Harbor, Japan when hit by enemy fire. Jim received a medal for his actions, as described by his admiral: “In the face of continuing explosions and raging fires and during further enemy air attacks he continued to fight fires, jettison hot ammunition, and otherwise courageously assist in bringing the damage under control. His courage, loyalty, and devotion to duty contributed materially to the saving of the ship and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.” Jim was hit by a beautiful WAVE, Shirley Pauline Gedrow. She became the love of his life and the two were married for 62 years prior to her death in 2009. Together, they were active in the Methodist church, played bridge, and traveled to visit friends and family. Jim and Pauli were especially connected to their grandson, Jonathan Jokerst, who they helped raise. After the war, Jim rejoined Monsanto and enjoyed a long career, working as a plant manager at facilities in Missouri, Connecticut, New York, Iowa, and Texas. Jim is survived by two siblings, the Rev. Robert Johnson and Nina Mae Welch, two daughters-Emmy Holman and Paula Munson, four grandchildren-Dorion Liston, Marney Liston, Shayna Cram, and Jonathan Jokerst, and two great-granddaughters-Lilly Liston and Juniper Liston. Jim had an even temperament, a strong listening presence, and a wry sense of humor. He was always patient, always kind, and incapable of harsh words, judgment or criticism of others. By example, he set a high standard for how we all might better live our lives. A private service will be held at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery in San Antonio, Texas. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate a donation to the USO for servicemen and women or Buckner Hospice.

 

Published in Austin American-Statesman on June 30, 2013
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2014 Reunion Update- July 17 thru 20 2014

Hello,

I received some exciting news from Ron Williams this weekend.  The 2014 USS Franklin Reunion venue has been selected!  The 2014 reunion will be at:

Sheraton Norfolk Waterside 777 Waterside Drive Norfolk, VA 23510

757-622-6664

http://www.sheratonnorfolkwaterside.com/

The dates will be July 17-20.  The room rate is $99/night single and double occupancy plus tax. The February mailing of the news letter will have more details.

In the mean time you can contact the even host, Ron Williams, at ron.williams@ussfranklin.org for more information. Ron and family are hosting the reunion in honor of their father, Franklin crew member Jim Lyons.

 

Obituary, Everett Franks

Birth: Feb. 11, 1925
Brilliant
Marion County
Alabama, USA
Death: Oct. 6, 2010
Rock Island
Rock Island County
Illinois, USA

ROCK ISLAND — Everett Franks, age 85, of Rock Island, died Wednesday, October 6, 2010, at Trinity Rock Island.

Visitation will be on Tuesday, October 12, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Hodgson Funeral Home, Rock Island. Funeral services will begin at 1 p.m. on Tuesday at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Rock Island National Cemetery on Arsenal Island, with military honors conducted by American Legion Posts 569 and 200, and VFW Post 1303. Memorials may be made to the Church of Peace United Church of Christ, Rock Island.

Everett was born on February 11, 1925, in Brilliant, Ala., the son of Isaac Egbert and Hassie E. (Autry) Franks. He was a veteran of World War II, having served in the U.S. Navy aboard the U.S.S. Franklin. He married Shirley A. Harl on February 11, 1956, in Rock Island.

Everett worked for Aramark Services (formerly F.W. Means) in East Moline as a route driver, retiring in 1987 after 34 years of service. He was a member of the Church of Peace United Church of Christ, Rock Island, and the Rock Island VFW. He enjoyed reading, playing cards, solving word search puzzles, his “coffee time” at Rock Island Hy-Vee and was a Chicago Cubs fan.

Survivors include his wife Shirley; daughters, Debra K. Melroy, Milan, Ill., Mary A. (Bill) Aubry, Taylor Ridge, Ill., and JoAnn M. Bird, Rock Island; sons, Joseph R. (Kathy) Franks, Preston, Conn., Richard L. (Rita) Franks, Geneseo, Ill., and Robert L. (Linda) Ortiz, Davenport; 14 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren with two more great-grandchildren expected; three nieces and one nephew; and his close friend of over 50 years, Ken Enstrom, Rock Island.
His parents, sister, Virginia Jones, brother, Dolphus Franks, and a great-grandson, Michael Jazzman Ortiz, preceded him in death.
(Oct. 10, 2010, Quad City Times)

Family links:
Parents:
Isaac Egbert Franks (1894 – 1976)
Hassie Evelyn Autrey Franks (1897 – 1992)

Inscription:
MML3 US Navy, World War II

Burial:
Rock Island National Cemetery
Rock Island
Rock Island County
Illinois, USA
Plot: V – 873

Created by: Genie Lady
Record added: Oct 10, 2010
Find A Grave Memorial# 59869577

 

http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=59869577

Obtuary, Andrew Gobla

Andrew Gobla, 88, of Wilkes-Barre went to be with his Lord and savior on Tuesday, June 18, 2013. He had resided at Little Flower Manor for the past 2½ years.

Andy was born in Mountain Top on April 13, 1925, son of the late Andrew and Mary Gobla.

He attended Mountain Top area schools and was a U.S. Navy veteran of World War II, serving aboard the USS Franklin. Upon his honorable discharge from the Navy, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and was a veteran of the Korean conflict.

After Andy’s second honorable discharge, he was employed as an electrician by Faith Shoe Factory and Topps Chewing Gum until his retirement in 1988.

He was a member of East End Primitive Methodist Church.

He and his wife, the former Ruth Miller, would have celebrated their 57th wedding anniversary on June 30, 2013.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Elizabeth Anne Stawasz; sisters, Eva Lebert and Mary Schwenk; and brothers, Frank, Harry, John, Michael and George.

Surviving, in addition to his wife, Ruth, are his daughter, Sharon Leslie and her husband, Edward, Miners Mills section of Wilkes-Barre; grandchildren, Erica Leslie Bennick, Nicole Stawasz Gregori, Craig Stawasz, Edward T. Leslie and Madisen Leslie; son-in-law, Jack Stawasz, Plains Township; several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services for Andy will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, June 29, in East End Primitive Methodist Church, Wilkes-Barre, with the Rev. Marty Garms, pastor, officiating. Interment will be held at the convenience of the family.

Memorial donations may be made to Little Flower Manor, 200 Meade St., Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702, or to East End Primitive Methodist Church, 79 Laurel St., Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702, in Andy’s memory.

Online condolences may be made at www.corcoranfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements are by Corcoran Funeral Home Inc., 20 S. Main St., Plains Township.

Published in Citizens’ Voice from June 20 to June 21, 2013

USS Franklin out of print books for sale!

USS Franklin (CV-13) Original Documents 1943-1946

  • Hardcover: 408 pages
  • Publisher: Turner Publishing; Limited edition (March 26, 1990)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 1563111454
  • ISBN-13: 978-1563111457

The USS Franklin museum association is selling its remaining stock.  The cost of the book is $53 and all proceeds go to the USS Franklin Museum Association.

Please email franklin@ussfranklin.org.

 

USS Franklin Reunion in the News! 5/17/2013

The USS Franklin reunion in Charleston South Carolina has made the local and national news.  NBC’s Brian Williams reports in the story below.

http://www.nbcnews.com/video/nightly-news/51922643/

MSNBC story is here:

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/51922965/displaymode/1283/for/facebookvideo

The local Charleston NBC news is here:

http://www.counton2.com/story/22281164/vets-from-world-war-ii-carrier-hold-final-reunion?autoStart=true&topVideoCatNo=default&clipId=8891626

Local ABC Coverage:

http://www.abcnews4.com/video?clipId=8892132&autostart=true

http://www.abcnews4.com/story/22278424/vets-from-world-war-ii-carrier-hold-final-reunion

http://www.abcnews4.com/video?clipId=8889422&autostart=true

 

Obituary, Roy Delbert Henderson

Roy Delbert Henderson 1922 – 2013
Published: May 11, 2013
Roy Delbert Henderson, age 90, of Springdale, Ark., departed this life on May 8, 2013, in Springdale. He was born July 6, 1922, in Seminole County, Okla., the son of Melvin and Mae Alston Henderson.

He retired after 35 years of service as manager of Consumer Oil Company. Mr. Henderson served his country with the Merchant Marine and the United States Navy during World War II, and received the Purple Heart and numerous other medals and awards. He enjoyed hunting and fishing.

He was preceded by his parents; one brother, Paul Henderson; and one sister, Opal Hixson.
He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Madge Green Henderson of the home; one son, Rick Henderson and his wife, Nancy, of Little Rock, Ark.; and his special friend, Sophie.

Graveside services will be Monday, May 13, 2013, at 11 a.m. at Fayetteville National Cemetery, with Chaplain Paul Woodhouse officiating, under the direction of Memorial Funeral Home. Military honors will be provided by Rogers VFW Post 3031.

Visitation will be Sunday, May 12, 2013, from 2 to 4 p.m. at Memorial Funeral Home, Springdale, AR.
Online condolences may be sent to http://www.memfuneral.com