Franklin Lee Walley

Franklin “Frank” Lee Walley, 80, of Pelahatchie, passed away peacefully on September 29, 2025, at Morton Care Center in Morton, Mississippi.

Born in Laurel, Mississippi, to William Clement and Mary Lois Walley, Frank lived a life full of laughter, and dedication to those he loved. Frank graduated from Rockhill High School South Carolina in 1963. After moving to Mississippi, he worked for Brown Bottling Pepsi Division before retiring in 2009. Marked by his innovative spirit and mentorship, he inspired countless colleagues. An avid fisherman and jokester, Frank found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He served 29 years in the U.S. Army, 25 of those years as an instructor with the Richton National Guard, and 4 years active duty during the Vietnam era. His warm smile and quick wit will be remembered by all who knew him.

Frank is survived by his devoted wife of 42 years, Patricia Hilton; son, Kevin Lee (Melissa) Walley; brother, Mickey René (Nancy) Walley; sister, Annie Sue (Charles) Lynch; granddaughter, Haley Nicole Walley; step-daughter, Frances (Tom) Ely; and numerous nieces, nephews, and step-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents; sister, Myrna Rawlinson; sister, Phyllis Stinson; and brother, William Randolph Walley, and step-daughter, Melanie Steele Rushing.

A celebration of Frank’s life, a graveside service will be held at Fellowship Free Will Baptist Church Cemetery, 2626 Union Road, Richton, Mississippi on October 6, 2025 with an open casket beginning at 10:30 a.m., and service beginning at 11:00 a.m. Frank’s legacy of love and generosity will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.