Franklin Delano Williams

Mr. Franklin Delano Williams, age 88 of Sparta, North Carolina, passed away Thursday, March 5, 2026, at his home. He was born in Patrick County on April 12, 1937, to the late John Preston Williams and Gracie Darling Rorrer Williams. In addition to his parents, Mr. Williams was preceded in death by his wife, Karen Lee Troup Williams; four brothers, John A. “Buck” Williams, Jimmy Lee Williams, Robert “Bob” Williams, and Joel “Pat” Williams; and six sisters, Mary Fern Baldwin, Tecora Quesinberry, Bernice Shaffer, Juanita “Betty” Rogers, India “Dot” Haynes and Gennell Williams. While Frank was known to many as “The Whiskey Man,” he was better known as Grandpa to his family. He loved fishing, hunting and riding around in his ’40 Ford coupe with his beloved wife, Karen on the Parkway. All who met him were entertained by his storytelling - whether the origins of NASCAR, a crazy escapade from his youth, bragging on his kids or grandkids or an ever larger fishing tale – He was a master storyteller. He is loved and will be missed. But we know he is happy to be reunited with “Ma” again.

Mr. Williams is survived by two daughters, Brenda Lee Hafer of Seneca, SC and Kerry Crouse (Melvin) of Glade Valley, NC; 11 grandchildren; 1 step grandson; 15 great- grandchildren; three step great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

A graveside service for Mr. Williams was held on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, in the Williams Family Cemetery. Moody Funeral Home is handling the arrangements, and online condolences may be sent by visiting www.moodyfuneralservices.com.

The Williams family would like to express their sincere appreciation for all the care given to Frank and Karen by Medi Home Hospice and Alleghany EMS and Rescue Squad.