Lynn and I were high-school buddies at Shades Valley.  He played alto sax and I the French horn in the school band.  He and I played lots of chess and poker together with Don Whaley and Bill Webb.  Lynn and I made a pistol by drilling a 7/32" hole through bar stock with his dad's drill press and we made rockets by using some of his dad's spent 30-06 cartridge cases.  I have forgotten how, but a low-power accident put a .22 bullet just under the skin of Lynn's upper left arm and to my knowlege he never had it taken out.  Another story from high school involves beer and a risky, futile attempt at getting him straight enough to deliver him to his home by holding one of his arms while the rest of him dangled over the edge of "Lovers' Leap", a daunting cliff on Shades mountain.  He hosted a couple of really good New Year's Eve parties. We had no contact after high school.  Whaley became a PhD professor of history; Webb got a doctorate in electrical engineering and was important in the development of the NMRI machines; at one time he had "the most powerful magnet east of the Mississippi";  Lynn became an electrical engineer for - Alabama Power?  I became a lawyer and played the horn in several orchestras.  I'm about the same age (12/36) as Lynn and I've been wondering how he is, hence a Google search only to learn that he had passed.  His picture vaguely resembles his high-school self.  He was good company; there was lots of joking and piddling around with boy stuff.

Lynn was, put simply, an amazing person.
He had a plethora of knowledge on so many subjects, especially guns and cars; and a great love for God, truth, and people. He was one of, if not the, best storyteller I've ever known, with a hilarious humility - or would that be humble hilarity?- I hate that I can't parse that one with him now. He was also a very good listener, and a wonderful brother/neighbor who helped me with at least one move, and several other right spots, usually involving cars. His passing came as a nasty shock to me; I can hardly imagine what Marianne, Steven and Elizabeth, and the grandchildren, must be experiencing. I know Lynn is sorely missed by many who were blessed to know him. While I thank God heartily for every remembrance of Lynn, I am also praying for His strength, comfort, and guidance for Lynn's family in this dark, difficult time. 

Lynn was one of the first friends I made at Liberty Church (along with Marianne) in the early 1990s. They often hosted singles in their home for get togethers, took us on sailing trips on their boat and even beach trips. Lynn, of course, always had an interesting story to regale us with. Lynn was quick to offer practical help of all varieties. He pitched in to help me move once, install a bathroom counter, and who knows what else. 
I lived close enough for a while to join in on walks around the neighborhood and episodes of Dr. Who, one of Lynn’s favorite PBS shows. 

I am saddened to learn of his passing, and I know he will be sorely missed by all. Now he can greet all the newcomers to heaven with a hearty “good morning!”

Lynn DeShazo



I met Franklin (Lynn) Meredith at a gun show in Birmingham about 30 years ago.  We discovered that we had a common interest in Springfield Rifles.  He is one of the most expert collectors of those rifles I have ever known.  Our relationship was like Lynn the teacher and me as the student.  I learned a lot from him and appreciate the time he spent teaching me.  I know him to a Christian who loved and served Christ.  I am praying for his family in this time of loss.

OBITUARY

Franklin W Meredith

8 September, 1936 – 1 August, 2022

Ridout's Valley Chapel

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