Franklin Sherman Lea

With tears of grief and joy, the Lea family shares the passing of our anchor, Franklin (Frank) Sherman Lea, on the morning of November 10, 2025. We mourn our loss but share his joy at reuniting with his beloved wife, Loretta, who passed in 2020.

Frank was born in the city of Martinez, California on December 29, 1930, to Jean Marjory Nash and Fred Pete Lea, the youngest of three joining sisters Beverly and Nancy. From humble beginnings, Frank learned love and compassion from his mother, and practical skills and love of country from his father. Following in his father’s footsteps, he enlisted in the Marine Corps reserves in November 1947 and then activated in 1950 (field of electronics). He served with honor as a Captain until retirement in December 1969. In 1954, Frank met his wife, Loretta, on a blind date. He was smitten and they married a few months later. This began his journey of love and commitment which lasted until his passing.

Upon retirement from the military, Frank secured positions with Swan Electronics and Cubic Corporation, doing what he did best, troubleshooting. When he left active employment, he moved his family to the rural setting of Valley Center, CA and proceeded to plant one of the first organic Asian Pear groves in the state. Frank’s interests were wide ranging: gentleman farmer, model train builder, car enthusiast, avid reader, and general handyman extraordinaire. There wasn’t a project that he couldn’t handle. In 2002, he and Loretta moved to Henderson, NV where he volunteered at the Boulder City train museum, restoring railroad cars. Frank spent his final years in Mesquite, NV at Mesa Valley Estates where he made some wonderful connections. He was loved by residents and staff, showing what a truly kind and thoughtful man, he was.

Frank leaves behind three children: Michael S. (Maureen), Cheryl J. (Emory Gilbert), and Jonathan A. (Rocio Macarena); three granddaughters: Karsen (Ryan Burke), Cameryn, and Jacqueline; one grandson, Nicolas; and two great granddaughters, Brighid and Aria. Frank’s family were active in his life, and they will cherish their memories of him. His legacy of love, family, and country will live on through them.

Services will be held on November 24, 2025, at 10:30 a.m., in the Pavillion at the Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery at 1900 Veterans Memorial Dr, Boulder City, NV 89005. In lieu of flowers, donations to ‘Chosin Few, Inc, Exclusive Fraternity of Honor’ or the ‘Maryknoll Sisters’ are appreciated.