03/25/2026
Gary John Frame, 59, passed away peacefully at home on March 24, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.
Funeral service will be held at 3:00 p.m., Thursday, March 26, 2026, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with visitation beginning at 2:00 p.m. Bro. Derrick Lightfoot will officiate, assisted by Steven Berry. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center.
Pallbearers will be Keith Byndom, Waylon Griffith, Derrick Lightfoot, Ronnie Youngblood, Glenn Johnson, and Bobby Smith. Honorary pallbearers will be Matt Frame, John Frame, and Gary’s grandsons.
Gary met the love of his life, Carol, when he was just 16 years old, and from that moment on, they built a life rooted in love, commitment, and hard work. He often referred to Carol as “his rock,” and she truly was. Carol devoted herself as his full-time caregiver, selflessly ensuring he was always cared for and never wanted for anything. Together, they created a home and a family that meant everything to him.
Gary was a true protector and provider, always making sure his family was cared for, supported, and deeply loved.
Gary dedicated much of his life to serving his community. He joined the Center Volunteer Fire Department at the age of 28 and served faithfully for 25 years. In addition, he worked for the City of Center for 30 years before retiring, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and strong work ethic.
He found joy in the simple things – hunting, working on his old-school pickup truck with John, grilling for the family alongside Matt, and enjoying visits from Kara, whom he loved to be “catered to” by while also aggravating her. He also enjoyed spending quiet time watching westerns in his recliner. One of the most familiar and cherished memories will be hearing him pull into the driveway after a long day at work, windows down, radio blaring to one of his favorite songs, “Wanna Be a Baller.”
Gary was known for being strong-willed and sometimes quiet, but those who knew him best saw his sneaky sense of humor and the deep love he carried for his family. He didn’t always need many words – his actions spoke loudly, and his presence was steady and reassuring.
Gary is survived by:
Loving wife, Carol Frame
Children:
Kara Frame
John Frame and wife Shelley
Matthew Frame and wife Nichole
Sister, Gayla Bright and family
Beloved grandchildren: John Jr. (Boog), Bella, Jace, Camryn, Mia, Ana, Daisy, Journi, Joshua, Jaycob, Aubreigh, Matti, Adi, Christian, Kylee, Kyndall, Colton, and Caden.
Gary is preceded in death by his unborn baby boy; his parents, John Bill Frame and wife Johnnie Sue; his brother, Gregory Neal Frame; his grandson, Charlie Frame; and his in-laws, Hookey and Anita Nichols.
Gary leaves behind a family who will forever hold him close in their hearts. His legacy lives on in the life he built, the values he instilled, and the memories that will never fade.
“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you;
and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you;
when you walk through fire you shall not be burned,
and the flame shall not consume you.”
-Isaiah 43:2
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
