Frank Cartmel Bedell

Frank C. Bedell, 91, of Richmond, VA died peacefully at home on January 13, 2025. He was surrounded by his wife and many family members. Frank was born in Charlottesville, VA, the son of Sullivan and Frances Bedell.

Frank received a BA degree from the University of Virginia in 1955. He served in ROTC at UVA and then in the U.S. Navy. He was honorably discharged in 1957. Frank moved to Richmond in 1959 where he worked for the Richmond Newspapers and then as a lobbyist representing energy trade organizations before the Virginia General Assembly. He retired in 2001.

Frank had a lust for life. He was an avid tennis player. In winter he could be seen sweeping or even shoveling snow off a tennis court at Bryan Park for a weekend match with friends. Afterward they might return home, settling in the kitchen to talk, enjoy a beer, and perhaps a round of robust songs from his college days. He had a great sense of humor, even when the joke was on him, a hearty laugh, and a sonorous voice.

He was an active member of Seventh Street Christian Church serving in many capacities with his most memorable teaching adult Sunday School.

He loved to watch pro football and in season could be found camped in front of the TV for entire days, watching and cheering (or jeering) teams.

Frank was an avid reader. He would sit by the window reading history books for hours at a time. He was especially fond of the history of Virginia, our nation’s founding, World War II and the Civil War.

His greatest love was for his family. He had three children by his first marriage and six stepchildren by his second marriage. Whether by birth or marriage, he was a loving parent to all his children. He shared in their hopes and fears, was there to pick them up and brush them off after a fall. He was a comforter, cheerleader, and confidant. He was especially fond of his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He would play board games, sports, and read to them. It was evident that they delighted him, and he delighted them.

Frank was a true gentleman. He was kind, thoughtful, and even courtly to others. He took a genuine interest in the families, spouses, and friends of his children.

He is survived by Lois, his wife of 50 years, his brother David, his sisters Betsy and Louisa, his 3 children, 6 stepchildren, 18 grandchildren, and 24 great grandchildren. All will miss his smile, his resonant voice, his kindness, and his love.

A celebration of Frank’s life will be held 1:00 pm on February 1, 2025 at Bethany Christian Church 5400 Forest Hill Avenue with a light reception to follow. There will be a private graveside service at Hollywood Cemetery.