William Franklin “Frank” Strayhorn, age 88

William Franklin “Frank” Strayhorn, 88, of McRae, Arkansas, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loved ones. Born on February 12, 1937, in McRae to Finus and Alice Strayhorn, Frank lived a full and meaningful life, defined by dedication, love, and laughter.

A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Frank was married to the love of his life, Lydia, for 68 years. Together they built a life rooted in family, faith, and resilience in his hometown of McRae.

Frank proudly served in the U.S. Army Reserves and spent his career working within the Carpenters Union in central Arkansas, where he was known for his strong work ethic and skilled craftsmanship. Outside of work, he was a true outdoorsman who found great joy in hunting and fishing with family, and friends in the natural beauty of his home state.

A man of deep kindness and sharp wit, Frank had a gift for making others feel welcome. He was a longtime supporter of the Arkansas Razorbacks and a lung cancer survivor, overcoming his battle in the mid-1990s with unwavering strength and grace.

Frank’s greatest pride was his family. He is survived by his beloved wife Lydia; his two children, Bruce Strayhorn and Sharlet Luebke; granddaughters, Devon Carpenter, Ashley Paige Kemp, and Abigail Clark; and four great-grandchildren, all of whom were blessed to know his love and guidance.

He will be deeply missed but forever remembered by all who knew him.