Ernest Franklin Bennett

Frank was born in Dunn, NC in the back of the small family grocery store where his parents lived. On his first birthday, they moved to a new home behind the store. He loved his hometown and thrived with the love of his aunts, uncles and cousins. Even in adulthood, he stayed in touch with many friends he knew as a boy.

Frank was an outstanding student receiving many honors. Upon his graduation from high school, he attended Brigham Young University. From 1958 to 1962, Frank served his country in the Navy. Becoming proficient in the Korean language, he worked for the NSA at a listening post.

In 1963, Frank worked at WLEE radio in Richmond, VA in advertising and sales. In May of that year, he met JoAnna and married her in August.

Three years later, Frank and JoAnna moved to Raleigh, NC where he joined WRAL radio. Benny, their first-born son, joined the family that year. While in Raleigh, they met their lifelong and precious friends, Bob and Judy Murphy.

In 1968, the family moved to Greensboro, NC for Frank to take a position in sales for WFMY TV. Shortly thereafter, they had their second son, Chris, in 1970. Frank’s career continued with WFMY TV, becoming National Sales Manager. He excelled at his job for 29 years.

After leaving WFMY TV, Frank reinvented himself and became a successful insurance salesman until he retired in 2018.

Frank is the fighter who defied the odds for years, but now has succumbed and joined his heavenly Father. Well done, BRAVEHEART.