James Franklin "Frank" Fox, 80, of Pensacola, FL passed away Saturday, July 16, 2022.

Frank was born April 1, 1942, in Greenwood, MS to John Turner and Sallie Wigley Fox. The youngest of three, Frank moved as a child with his parents and siblings to Union City, TN. There, he graduated high school, a scholar and athlete. Frank attended the University of Tennessee, initially at its satellite campus in Martin, and then at its main campus in Knoxville. He graduated with a bachelor's in civil engineering, and later obtained a master's in business administration from Florida State University.

A life-long military man, Frank served in the Navy and naval reserves, retiring at the rank of Captain. He spent his lengthy career in civil service. He met his wife of fifty-three years, Joan, shortly after his assignment to Pensacola Naval Air Station. Married in April 1969, Frank and Joan settled in Pensacola, where they raised two sons, Jake and Tim.

Frank enjoyed traveling, hunting, playing golf, watching the financial markets, and most of all, spending time with his family. One favorite pastime was performing with the Gulf Coast Chorale and as part of the Pensacola Senior Follies. He truly enjoyed fishing, boating, and water sports. When his sons were young, he spent a great time officiating and refereeing swim meets, becoming a Certified National swim official. He was also involved with City youth baseball, soccer, and football. Frank was an active member of the YMCA of Northwest Florida, where, for a time, he taught a spin class. Frank was an avid fan of history. A particular favorite was World War II. Several years ago, he was thrilled to have had the opportunity to visit the beaches of Normandy and pay tribute the many courageous souls who fought and died there. Frank loved life, helping others, and telling stories, particularly those of his family in whom he took great pride.

He is preceded in death by sister, JoAnn Schwartz and her husband Merwyn; brother, Col. John Dalton Fox; and brother-in-Law, William "Bill" Merritt and his wife Maire.

Frank is survived by his wife, Joan Merritt Fox of Pensacola; son, James "Jake" Fox (Kristin) of Frederick, MD; son, Timothy Fox (Travis) of Cornelius, OR; grandchildren, Kenna and Mabel Fox of Frederick, MD, and Noah and Milo Fox of Cornelius, OR; brother-in-law, Wayne (Barbara) Merritt; sister-in-law, Diane (Andy) Haddock; sister-in-law, Henrianne Connor Fox, and many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members.

Visitation will be held 11:30am until a Memorial Service to begin at 12:00noon Friday, August 11, 2023, at Harper-Morris Memorial Chapel, with Fr. Craig Smith officiating. Interment will follow at Barrancas National Cemetery, with full military honors.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Ascension Sacred Heart Hospital or to St. Jude Hospital.