Frank Russell Booth, Jr.

Frank Russell Booth, Jr., a native Austinite, a valued member of the Texas Water community, and a distinguished veteran, passed away at the fine age of 92. He leaves behind a legacy of service and devotion to his country, family, and profession.

Born in Austin in 1930, Frank attended Austin High School, following in the footsteps of his father, Frank Booth, Sr. His father died when he was sixteen leaving Frank, his two sisters and mother to carry on. Frank's dedication to education led him to become an Eagle Scout, finish high school and pursue higher studies at The University of Texas at Austin while working as a painter and paper hanger. At UT, he not only excelled academically, but also answered the call to serve his nation by joining the Marine Corps Reserve.

Upon graduating from UT in 1951, Frank subsequently entered officer training school. In 1952, he was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the active-duty Marine Corps and assigned to George Company, 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division. Frank's bravery and commitment to duty were evident during his deployment to Korea as an infantry officer.

During his service, Frank faced the dangers of combat. He was wounded twice, earning the Purple Heart on both occasions. The first injury occurred when his company was sent to reinforce another under heavy fire. Frank sustained shrapnel wounds in his right calf while successfully completing the mission. The second instance happened during a reconnaissance patrol behind enemy lines, where a landmine explosion left him severely injured as well as wounding and killing other members of his platoon. Despite his injuries, Frank called for assistance and was evacuated along with the other injured and dead. For his exceptional service, Frank received the Marine Corps Commendation Medal, further recognizing his bravery and dedication to duty.

After being hospitalized for a year, Frank, unable to pass his physical examination, was temporarily retired. During this period of time, he married Evelyn Davis, the mother of his three sons Michael, Matthew, and Christopher.

Undeterred by his injuries, he pursued his passion for law, entering the University of Texas Law School in 1956. In 1957, he was called back to active duty and, in 1958, was placed on the permanent retired list.

Frank's commitment to justice extended beyond his military service. As an attorney, he dedicated his career to various organizations, including the Board of Water Engineers, later known as the Texas Water Commission, where he served as General Counsel and later Executive Director. Additionally, he held significant positions such as General Counsel of the United States Study Commission - Texas and Assistant Attorney General of Texas.

After leaving state employment in 1969, Frank entered the private practice of law. Frank's expertise in water and environmental law was highly valued, and among other clients he represented the Trinity River Authority for 30 years as their General Counsel. Part of Frank’s commitment to the water community was his chairmanship of the Water Laws Committee of the Texas Water Conservation Association, a nonprofit association of Texas Water professionals representing river authorities, water districts water users and organizations with water interests.

In 1996, Frank married Geraldine Love Moore. Besides continuing to practice law, he moved to the coast and enjoyed his passion for fishing while holding “Booth camps” for both sets of their grandkids. He retired full time in 2008.

Frank Russell Booth, Jr. will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, and esteemed member of the legal profession. He is survived by his wife, Geraldine Love Booth; his sons and their wives, Michael and Lori Booth, Matthew and Mary Ann Booth, Christopher and Rebecca Booth; his stepdaughters and their husbands, Katherine and Stephen Nicholson, Kelly and Mark Smith, Colleen and Pearce Barry; grandchildren, Caress (Trent) Patterson, Catherine (Anders) Helgason, David Booth; step grandchildren Gavin and Alaina Smith, and two Barry’s; a great-granddaughter, Collins Mae Patterson, a step great-granddaughter Echo Eubanks and step great-grandson Gage Schomberg.

Frank's courage, resilience, and unwavering commitment to serving his family, country and community will forever be remembered. May his soul rest in peace.

A visitation will be held Thursday, July 13, 2023 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Cook-Walden Chapel of the Hills Funeral Home, 9700 Anderson Mills Road. A graveside burial service will be held Friday, July 14, 2023 at 9:00 a.m. at Austin Memorial Park Cemetery, 2800 Hancock Drive.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to donate to a military veteran’s charity/organization of your choice.