Frank Paul Mattingly, Sr.

Major Frank Paul Mattingly, Sr., U.S. Army National Guard (Retired), passed away on Monday, June 30, 2025, at the age of 76. A dedicated veteran of both the U.S. Navy and the National Guard, Frank’s life was defined by unwavering integrity, loyalty, and a deep love for his family. His legacy is one of quiet strength, humor, and the kind of moral compass that is rare to find — something reflected not just in the hearts of those who loved him, but also in his military service records and medals.

Born on August 29, 1948, to the late Vivian and Joseph Roy Mattingly, Sr., Frank grew up in Louisville, Kentucky. Frank’s military career spanned over two decades, beginning with his service in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War. He served two tours as a Radarman aboard the USS Ticonderoga and later as a Radio-TV officer. His dedication to service continued when he transferred to the Kentucky Army National Guard, where he served in several roles, including military photographer, illustrator, and author. He created an Our Flag book and published The Military Review, and he was instrumental in designing the Junior ROTC Distinguished Cadet Medal, which was approved by the Department of Defense’s Institute of Heraldry.

Frank completed the intensive Command and General Staff Officer Course and earned a spot on the prestigious Commandant's List. He was later promoted to Major and spent his final years in the Guard as a Recruitment and Retention Officer, specializing in military healthcare providers and designing recruitment materials. Frank was awarded numerous medals throughout his career, including the Vietnam Service and Campaign Medals, a Gallantry Cross, and several expeditionary and meritorious commendations. His performance reviews consistently praised his integrity, loyalty, and moral standards, reflecting the quiet leadership that he exemplified throughout his career.

But Frank’s legacy is not just defined by his military service. After retiring from the Guard, Frank pursued a Master’s in Education at the University of Louisville, adding to his Fine Arts degree. He went on to teach high school science, where his patience, dedication, and dry sense of humor made him a favorite among his students. Outside the classroom, Frank worked at Kinko’s, where his sharp eye for design served both customers and colleagues alike.

Even after retiring from teaching, Frank’s work was far from done. He embraced the role of PawPaw with gusto, spending his days surrounded by his beloved grandchildren. Sunday night dinners were a staple of family life, and Frank could always be found lending a hand on home improvement projects at 5 Oaks with his children. His love for his family was boundless, and his legacy of unconditional love and support continues through them.

Frank also had a creative streak that showed in his woodworking, fine art, and photography. He designed and sewed custom monogrammed canvas bags and even crafted cloth masks for family and friends during the COVID-19 pandemic. Frank’s attention to detail and craftsmanship were second to none. And, of course, there was his infamous stash of candy — particularly the Harry Potter treats that he would sneak to his grandchildren just before dinner. It was his way of adding a little extra magic to their lives.

A man of deep conviction, Frank was a longtime parishioner of Our Mother of Sorrows and St. Albert the Great Catholic Churches. His faith, along with his commitment to family, service, and integrity, shaped the way he lived and the way he is remembered.

In addition to his parents, Frank is preceded in death by brother, Robert Mattingly.

Frank is survived by his beloved wife, Mary Anne Magruder Mattingly; his children and their families, Susan Stroud (Jonathan, and children Jacob, Isaac, and Katelyn), Dr. Julia Frith (Charles, and children Landon and Elijah), Frank Paul Mattingly, Jr. (Ellery, and children Leeanne and Vivian), Benjamin Mattingly Sr. (Alyssa, and children Caroline, Riley, and Benjamin Jr.), and Christopher Mattingly (Asia, and children Roman and William). He is also survived by his siblings, Roy Mattingly, Jr., Carolyn Gnau, and Valerie Casey (Dr. David Casey), as well as a large extended family of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Visitation will be from 4pm to 6pm on Wednesday, July 9, 2025 at Newcomer Cremations, Funerals and Receptions, East Louisville Chapel, 235 Juneau Drive, Louisville, Kentucky, 40243, with a prayer service there at 6pm. Private burial will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation. Frank’s life was a testament to loyalty, love, and service. He may have been quiet with words, but his actions — and the raise of an eyebrow — spoke volumes. His legacy will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who had the honor of knowing him.

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