Franklin Lee Grizzard

Franklin Lee Grizzard, 88, of Jarratt, VA was surrounded by his family on January 29, 2016 as he went to meet his Lord and Savior. He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank David and Winifred Williams Grizzard and great grandson, Lyle Hayes Grizzard. He is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Lois Leeds Starke Grizzard; his son, Michael L. Grizzard and loving companion, Ann Taylor; his daughters, Pamela Ann Grizzard Rosanelli, Tina Leeds Grizzard Autry and her husband, Jerry; grandchildren, Michael Lee Grizzard, II and his wife, Kristen, Matthew Nelson Grizzard and his wife Alison, Chase Stewart Autry, Cabell Thomas Rosanelli and his wife, Jamie, and Stephanie Blair Autry; great grandchildren, Kellan Michael Grizzard, Violet Jane Grizzard, Alden Lee Grizzard and Linden Joah Grizzard. Franklin is also survived by his brother, David A. Grizzard, and two sisters-in-law, Pauline S. Adams and Carolyn S. Ankermiller.
Franklin was always a hard worker and left schooling in the seventh grade to help his father on the farm in Southampton County. He was honorably discharged from the Army in 1951 during the Korean War. He also served in WWII.
He met “the prettiest red head in three counties” in 1947, and, after their first date, Franklin told his friends he was going to marry Lois. They started their family in Jarratt, VA in 1951.
Franklin was a life-long contractor who was a master in his craft. He never stopped until his work was perfect. He and his brother-in-law, Joe Adams, started Adams & Grizzard in 1956 and operated for 33 years. Franklin and his son, Mike, began Grizzard Construction, Inc. in 1990 and worked side by side every day. Franklin and Mike were especially proud of the many churches they built in the local communities. Franklin never really liked retirement and always wanted to go on the job site one more time. He loved to teach his family members about the construction business, and now they all have an eye for quality building skills; they can pinpoint half-inch discrepancies because Franklin taught them so well.
Franklin loved spending time with his family, especially if a meal was involved. He would eat until he was “about ready to pop” and then he would continue to eat; even so, he always left room for dessert. Seafood was one of his favorites, and Lois always knew how to fix the meals just like he liked them.
Franklin was a Boy Scout Leader, Sunday School Teacher, Deacon and Trustee of High Hills Baptist Church, fireman with Jarratt Volunteer Fire Department, and member of the Jarratt American Legion.
The family will receive friends at Owen Funeral Home in Jarratt, VA on January 31, 2016 from 2-4 and 6-8.
Services will be held on February 1, 2016 at 11:00 am at High Hills Baptist Church with burial at High Hills Baptist Church Cemetery.
Memorial Donations can be made to High Hills Baptist Church, Adams Grove Baptist Church or Main Street Baptist Church, Emporia, VA.