Frank Scales Jr.

He was born in Natchez, Mississippi, to Frank Scales and Forestine (Hayes) Scales. Because of World War II and the fear that San Francisco’s port might be vulnerable to attack—especially after Pearl Harbor was bombed in December of 1941—his father sent Forestine to Natchez to give birth. Shortly after Frank was born, she returned to San Francisco with baby Frank and his older sister.

Frank was raised his entire life in San Francisco, California. He grew up at 1126 Goettingen Way, a two bedroom home in the working-class Visitacion Valley neighborhood, alongside his eldest sister, Latisha Scales Woods, and his younger brother, Walter Leon Scales. He attended and played football at Balboa High School, already showing the strength and determination that would define much of his life.

In 1964, while working for Muni as a cable car and bus driver, Frank met the love of his life, Rosalie Elzey. Rosalie would often take his bus route on her way to work. During his final routes at night, they would sit and people-watch together. After many bus rides and quiet conversations, they had their first real date— dinner, a movie, and time spent sitting at the Wharf. On March 5, 1965, they were married.

Together, they built a family. They had two daughters, Belinda (Scales) Bridgewater and Bertina Scales. Frank was a proud grandfather to Francesca Bridgewater, Stephen Ellis George III, Gabrielle George, Corinne Bridgewater, and Taylor George. He was also blessed with two great-grandchildren, Ava Humphrey and Rosa Leigh Cobb.

Frank served in the military before continuing his education. He earned an AA degree from the City College of San Francisco and a Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration from the University of San Francisco. In 1968, he became a firefighter in Daly City. In 1971, he joined the San Francisco Fire Department, where he would build a lasting legacy. He was promoted to Arson Investigator and Lieutenant at Engine 33. In 1972, he joined the San Francisco Black Firefighters Association, becoming one of the organization’s founding members—a role that reflected both his leadership and his commitment to equity and opportunity within the department.

Because of his expertise and skill, he was assigned to the Division of Training, where he helped train the SFFD’s first group of female firefighters, including Sheila Hunter, who later became the first Black female firefighter in the SFFD and a member of the SFBFA.

In 1993, he was asked by the State Department to travel to more than 23 countries in Africa to assist with clean water projects aimed at reducing cholera. Transported by the U.S. Army, and supported by the SFFD, which sent a reserve fire engine to Central Africa, he helped lead purification and water decontamination efforts. For his service, Assistant Deputy Chief Scales was awarded the U.S. Army Distinguished Service Medal.

Throughout his career, he was recognized for excellence. For his work as Deputy Chief of Management and Support Services, he received the City’s Public Managerial Excellence Award. He was also awarded the SFFD Meritorious Conduct Award – Class C, honoring bravery performed in the line of duty. In 1997, Assistant Deputy Chief Frank Scales retired from the department.

Retirement did not slow him down. He continued the brotherhood he built in the fire department and found another brotherhood on the golf course. He enjoyed monthly meet-ups at Tower Cafe with his buddies, where they would sip champagne and where Frank always ordered his favorite—Thai Steak and Eggs—before heading to their favorite cigar lounge. He also enjoyed rounds at Bing Maloney and Bartley Cavanaugh Golf Course, playing a quick nine holes and then debating politics in the clubhouse.

Frank took pride in being a businessman and providing for his family. In addition to his fire service career, he was an entrepreneur. He owned King Cabs cab company in San Jose and consulted with telecommunications companies. At one point, he owned more than 15 properties across the Sacramento and Bay Area. He valued relationships deeply and remained committed to his tenants—some of whom stayed with him for more than 25 years.

All of this helped create the life and legacy he leaves behind.

He loved being the supporter and provider for his grandchildren, whether that be giving advice on the phone, taking to see a Kings game, or being a resource for education or homeownership. He loved sharing his experiences and truly believed the way to freedom was ownership. He mentored anyone, from friends to gardeners, on how to turn their work into business. And every year, he loved traveling to Barbados with his wife, Rosalie—later joined by their children and grandchildren—creating memories that will live on in all of us.

Frank Scales was a leader, a protector, a builder of opportunity, and a man who believed deeply in service to his city, his brothers, and his family. His legacy lives on not only in the ranks he earned or the honors he received, but in the doors he opened, the lives he mentored, and the foundation he built for all of us. We stand here today because of his strength, his vision, and his love. And we will carry that forward.