Franklin Dell Wideman

Franklin “Frank” D. Wideman, 82, of Gardendale, Alabama, passed away on August 14, 2024. Frank was born on October 3, 1941, to the late Cleatus and Ethel Wideman. He grew up in Walker County, Alabama being raised by his sisters and father as their mother passed away at an early age and attended Eldridge Junior High. At the young age of 17, he enlisted in the United States Army, marking the beginning of a distinguished military career. Frank served with honor as a Staff Sergeant in the Alabama Army National Guard, retiring after 32 years of dedicated service.

In addition to his military career, Frank was a certified mechanic with a specialization in electronics. His work at various Ford locations was marked by his deep passion for fixing what others believed was unfixable. His mechanical expertise and problem-solving skills were highly respected and appreciated by all who knew him.

Frank cherished his time he spent fly fishing with his family, creating countless cherished memories on their fishing trips. An active member of the Gardendale Flower Club, Frank took great pride in maintaining a pristine yard and was always ready to lend a helping hand to his neighbors and friends.

Over the past decade, Frank devoted himself to caring for his beloved wife, Beatrice, exemplifying his faithful and loving nature.

Frank is preceded in death by his daughter, Tonya Townson; his sister, Lorene Rodriguez; his brother, Millard Wideman; as well as his parents, Cleatus and Ethel Wideman.

He is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Beatrice Wideman; his sons, Ronnie Wideman and Thomas Wideman; his grandchildren, Amber Spears (Zac) and Hunter Townson (Taylor); and eight great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sisters, Merlene Hobbs, Irene Edgil, and Betty Ruth Posey, along with a host of extended relatives and friends.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, August 18, 2024, from 1:00 to 2:00 pm at Ridout’s Gardendale Chapel. A graveside service will follow at 2:15 pm at Oakwood Memorial Gardens Mausoleum.