Frank Vawter

William Franklin “Frank” Vawter was born on July 6, 1936, in Cullman, Alabama, to William Homer and Gertie Vawter. His father, William Homer, received a commendation from the U.S. Government for his work on the Manhattan Project—something that inspired in Frank a lifelong respect for service, hard work, and dedication.

Frank passed away peacefully on October 21, 2025, surrounded by the family he loved so deeply.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Nancy Vandegriff Vawter; his two sons, William Victor (Vic) Vawter and wife Susan, and Eric Franklin Vawter and wife Kristine; his two stepsons, Colin Durham and Blair Durham; and his beloved grandchildren, William Nickolas, Jack Mattox, and Hannah Victoria Vawter. He also leaves behind one great-grandson, William Wade Vawter, the fifth generation of first-born William Vawters—a tradition Frank was especially proud of.

Frank lived a life defined by loyalty, curiosity, and quiet determination. He began his telephone career in 1956 as a cable splicer and quickly rose through the ranks of AT&T, earning a reputation as a talented leader and problem-solver. Over the years, he served as a central office technician and manager in several Alabama cities. In 1972, he was promoted to District Plant Manager for South Central Bell, responsible for operations across north-central and western Alabama. At the time, he was the youngest person nationwide to hold that position—an achievement that spoke to his drive and leadership. He later worked in government and regulatory affairs before retiring from AT&T in 1987.

But Frank’s true calling may have been in the sky. His military career began with the Alabama National Guard as a tank commander before he discovered his love of flying. After attending helicopter flight school at Fort Rucker, Alabama, he went on to serve as both a helicopter and fixed-wing pilot, ultimately earning the rare and distinguished rank of Chief Warrant Officer 5—the first National Guard member to do so.

In 1983, Frank became a full-time member of the U.S. Army, where he flew a variety of aircraft on missions around the world, including work with the newly formed Joint Special Operations Forces and transportation for senior military leaders. He retired in 1996, having dedicated more than forty years of his life to serving his country.

Even in retirement, Frank’s love of flight never waned. He continued to fly as a corporate pilot, traveling across the United States and abroad. No matter where his career took him, Frank always found his way home—to Nancy, his boys, and the family he adored.

Frank will be remembered as a loving husband, father, stepfather, grandfather, and great-grandfather, as well as a man of honor, humility, and steadfast integrity. He had a quiet strength, a quick wit, and a heart full of generosity. Those who knew him best will remember his deep laugh, his endless curiosity, and his unwavering love for his family.

Frank’s life was one well lived, and his legacy will continue to soar through the generations who follow.