Francis "Frank" P. Muir

Francis P. Muir passed away peacefully at home on December 8, 2020. His loving wife and life partner Phyllis was by his side as she had been through 71 years of marriage. Frank was 94 and lived a healthy, happy and family focused life. He was a resident of Greer, SC for the past 27 years – and through his life called Woodhaven in Queens NY, Oceanside Long Island NY, and Franklin Lakes NJ home.

Born in 1926 he grew up in the working class neighborhoods of New York City and learned early the value of hard work, respect of a dollar and the value of education. He clearly instilled these values in his children and grandchildren. In his late teens, Frank enlisted in the Army to serve in WW II and after basic training earned the rank of Sergeant TEC 4. The Army allowed him to continue his education and he attended Penn State, NYU and Columbia University where he earned his degree in Engineering.

He joined the Western Union Company in Lower Manhattan in 1949, and over the next 36 years built a career that contributed to advancing communications, satellite development and special government programs. After leaving WU in 1985 he was a partner in a telecommunications consulting firm until retiring in 1992. Through his service to our country and contributions with his work – Frank was a member in good standing of the greatest generation. He enjoyed fishing, reading and burying himself in the WSJ every day. He was a kind man of great intelligence and strong values.

Most important to Frank was his family. He was our patriarch – always there, involved, engaged and proud. Frank Muir and Phyllis Schmiemann met as kids in Brooklyn. Affectionately known as “Boo” and “Rah”, their love story over the past 85 years is one for the ages. They were committed to each other in every way and were truly best friends. Married in 1949 they had three children – Peggy (Steve), Bill (Christina), and Joe (Nancy). Then came seven grandchildren – David (Katie), Jim (Amanda), Pam (David), Katie (Patrick), Kelly, Megan and Tim. Also 10 great-grandchildren – Jack, Will, Knox, Lily, Matt, Sam, Mae, Liam, Aedan and Drew. His legacy and love lives within all of us.

A private service was held on December 17, 2020 at the M.J. "Dolly" Cooper Veterans Cemetery in Anderson, South Carolina. Memorial donations can be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital (www.stjude.org/donate) or the Symmes Library in Greenville, SC (www.greenvillelibrary.org/donate).