Franklin Joseph Baldwin, Sr.

Franklin Joseph Baldwin, Sr.   Franklin Joseph Baldwin, Sr., 84, of Charleston, South Carolina, went to be with his Lord and Savior on December 18, 2024. Although born in Colleton County, Frank was from Adams Run, SC where he was known as Frankie Joe. In later years, he was nicknamed "The Supervisor" by his immediate family as he liked to oversee various matters. He was a graduate of St. Paul's High School. Frank received his "college" education on-the-job while working at Charleston Plywood and Lumber, where he learned contracting skills. He was the retired owner of Frank J. Baldwin Construction Company, a residential contracting company, for 30+ years. If someone lived in a distinctive, Baldwin-built house, they knew they lived in a well-constructed home. In addition to being a contractor, Frank was a landlord and a retired small business owner.   

Frank was a man of strong Christian faith. He was a current member of Charleston Presbyterian Church. As a former member of Ashley River Baptist Church, he served as a deacon and on the Building and Grounds Committee. Frank was a southern gentleman who was humble, kind and generous. He loved to feed people as well. He was always asking if you wanted something to eat or if you would like a sweet tea.   

In Frank's younger years, he enjoyed owning cars, especially his 1957 Chevy and 1961 Chevy Impala SS. It may surprise many to know that Frank drag raced back in the day. Clearly, he had a lead foot, which was used at least on one occasion to outrun the law. Frank would fondly recount that story over the years. In keeping with his love of cars, there was a time when Frank wanted to buy a Corvette, but ultimately, love and wisdom prevailed when he invested in a far more valuable purchase which was an engagement ring for Anita Grooms.   

In recent years, Frank enjoyed walking at the Citadel Mall with his faithful caregivers, Fran Jeffries and Laura McBride. He met many others also walking in the mall, whom he considered friends.   

Frank is survived by his two children: Franklin J. "Jody" Baldwin, Jr. (Susan E.) and Allison B. Williamson (Jeff); three grandchildren: Franklin J. "Tradd" Baldwin III, Laurel H. Williamson, and Merritt B. Williamson; sister, Jean Kay Baldwin McKnight (Charles); sister-in-law, Georgia D. Baldwin; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and childhood friend, "Ruran."   

Frank was predeceased by his wife of 55 years, Anita Grooms Baldwin; parents: Gilbert B. Baldwin and Wilhelmina Cordray Baldwin; brothers: Gilbert C. Baldwin, Sr. and Patrick R. Baldwin; sisters: Lurie Ette Liger and Gayle C. Smith; and sisters-in-law: J. LaTrelle Hayward and J. LaVone Grooms.   

In keeping with Frank's wishes, friends and family are invited to a graveside service Saturday, January 4, 2024 in Live Oak Memorial Gardens, 3093 Ashley River Road at 11:00 am. Arrangements by J. Henry Stuhr, Inc. Downtown Chapel.   

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Charleston Presbyterian Church, 1405 Miles Drive, Charleston, SC 29407 or to the Faith Forward Restoration Campaign at Ashley River Baptist Church, 1101 Savannah Highway, Charleston, SC 29407.