Frank Lester Beale Jr.

Frank Lester Beale Jr., lovingly known as Frankie, passed away on December 18, 2025, at the age of 70 in St. Augustine, Florida, following a long and courageous battle with kidney disease. He was surrounded by his family at the time of his passing.
Frank was born on November 16, 1955, in Hialeah, Florida, where he was also raised. He attended Miami Springs Senior High School and graduated in 1973. Growing up in South Florida, Frank developed a lifelong love for the water, boating, fishing, and the outdoors-passions that stayed with him throughout his life.
After high school, Frank pursued a career as an electrician in Stuart, Florida. It was there that he met the love of his life, Joanne. They were married on June 18, 1983, and shared 42 years of marriage together. Stuart is also where they raised their daughter, Katheryn "Katie" Beale and stepsons James Craig (JC) Wardell and Ryan Matthew Wardell.
Frank later became a professional truck driver with Conway Truckload, where he worked for eight years. During that time, Frank and Joanne were team drivers, traveling across the country together and sharing countless adventures on the road.
Frank spent his retirement years in St. Augustine, Florida, where he was a familiar and friendly face at the local farmers market. He loved helping his daughter and son-in-law sell honey for their family business, Bee Hill Farm, a name chosen in honor of the Beale family.
Frank was a devoted family man who never missed an opportunity to show up for those he loved-whether it was sporting events, family gatherings, or everyday moments. He especially cherished time spent with his grandchildren and step-grandchildren. Known as Papa, Daddy, and Uncle Frankie, he captivated kids and adults alike with his stories, jokes, and unforgettable laugh.
Frank was resilient, tough, and determined-a true fighter. The family often joked that he had nine lives. He was always ready for an adventure, happiest when surrounded by nature and family. His smile lit up every room, and he had a natural gift for storytelling. He also played the piano beautifully and loved jazz music.
Frank was preceded in death by his parents, Frank Lester Beale Sr. and Anna Ruth Beale of Dade City, Florida.
He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Joanne August Beale; his daughter, Katheryn (Katie) Beale Versaggi; his son-in-law, Joey Versaggi; and his beloved grandchildren, Joel Edward Versaggi and Anna Lynn Versaggi. He is also survived by his stepsons, James Craig (JC) Wardell II and Ryan Matthew Wardell and his step-grandchildren. Frank is further survived by his siblings: Fran (Gene) Hoffmann, Sharon (Joel) Montgomery, and Raymond (Sue) Beale.
The family will honor Frank's life with a private celebration of life.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Frank's honor to the DaVita Kidney Care Center of St. Augustine. The family is deeply grateful for the compassion, care, and support provided during Frank's battle with kidney disease.
Frankie was the life of the party, a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. He was there for everyone he loved, and his legacy of laughter, strength, and love will live on forever