Francis John Markle, 96, of Columbiana, Alabama, passed away peacefully at home Sunday morning, January 4, 2015. He was born in Mentor, Ohio to Charles and Melva Markle. He loved his family, baseball, golf, and laughter. A perpetual joker, his sense of humor brought joy to his family and friends. Fran is survived by his loving and faithful wife of 59 years, Anita Markle; two daughters, Gail Smith (Noel Howard) and Karen Crim (Wes); five grandchildren: Daniel Smith (Monica), Michael Germana (Cristyl), Marisa Dickinson (Dana), Karin Smith, Gregory Crim; three great-grandchildren; sister, Kathleen Edelburg; brother, Vernon “Red” Markle (Jean); and numerous nieces and nephews. Fran was preceded in death by his brother, Carl Markle. Visitation will be held Friday, January 9, 2015 at Southern Heritage Funeral Home in Pelham from 11:00 to 1:00. A celebration of his life will begin at 1:00 followed by burial at the Alabama National Cemetery in Montevallo at 2:45 pm. In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to the Center Point Presbyterian Church, PO Box 9657, Birmingham, AL 35220 or the charity of your choice.
