Search by Name

Search by Name

Francis Hart Obituary

Francis J. Hart Jr. VIRGINIA BEACH - On Nov. 3, 2010, Francis Joseph "Frank" Hart Jr. passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving children. Frank was born Easter Sunday, April 5, 1931 in Norfolk. "Sonny" graduated from Maury High School in 1950 where he played trumpet in the school band. Frank was predeceased by his father, Francis J. Hart Sr.; his mother, Carrie L. Hart Jolly; and stepfather, Elton Jolly. He is survived by his beloved children, Frank Stephen Hart, Lee Ann Hart Held; son-in-law, Russell J. Held; and adored grandson Tyler Mack Held, his wife, Joan C. Hart; stepdaughter, Michele Keeton; and three precious grandchildren, Katie, Amy and Daniel Keeton; and a stepson, Shawn Miller. Also surviving are his former wife and lifelong friend, Sybil B. Hart and his dear friend, David Yow. Frank was a member of IBEW Local 80 and retired from Austin Electric Company after 44 years of service on Jan. 1, 1995. Everyone who knew Frank knew of his passion for classic cars. He spent many years in the Tidewater Corvette Club and traveled the coast competing in car shows. After retiring, he enjoyed "working" at his nephew's shop, K&B Custom Auto, where he was lovingly known by everyone as Uncle Frank. He was fortunate to have many wonderful friends and a large extended family, Richard Kelly, Karen and Bill Shanley and Jean and Mike Rogers who opened their hearts and homes to him. The family would like to thank the staff of Heartland Hospice Care for their tremendous support and gentle care. A memorial service will be held at Altmeyer Funeral Home, 5792 Greenwich Road, Virginia Beach, VA 23462, Tuesday, Nov. 9, at 2 p.m. Online condolences may be expressed at www. cremate.org.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Virginian-Pilot on Nov. 7, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for Francis Hart

Not sure what to say?





1 Entry

David Yow

November 7, 2010

On November 3rd, 2010, I lost the best friend I ever had. I will miss him immensely. I was fortunate enough to have been able to spend time with him shortly before his passing. Holding his hand and telling him what a special person and a good friend he is will remain indelibly etched in my mind throughout the rest of my natural life. Frank was not only a good man he was a wonderful friend and a terrific father. His love of family was unparallel beyond description. Nothing was more important to him than his daughter Lee Anne, his son-in-law Russell, his son Steve and most of all and his grandson Tyler. Though we shared so many good times together and created so many memories, nothing was more important to him than his family and friends. We would often meet for lunch and in spite of all the times we spent building memories, conversations would always gravitate to his children, whom we loved so dearly. Frank was the kind of friend who never asked anything from anyone, but gave freely to those around him. He was truly the most honorable man I have ever known. I am deeply saddened by his passing and will miss him beyond measure. Frank, you are a man among men….thanks for being my friend.

Showing 1 - 1 of 1 results

Make a Donation
in Francis Hart's name

Memorial Events
for Francis Hart

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Francis's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Francis Hart's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more