Frank B. Blades Sr.

Frank B. Blades Sr. entered eternal rest after a life marked by faith, family, hard work, and an unforgettable spirit. Born on September 25, 1938, in the vibrant Panama Canal Zone to Leo McDonald Blades and Caroline Leoatta Hanes. Frank’s formative years were shaped by the rich culture and close-knit community of his birthplace.

A proud graduate of Paraiso High School, Frank began his professional journey as a dedicated bus driver. In 1970, he courageously made the significant move to the United States, where he initially worked as a security guard. His strong work ethic, dependability, and commitment soon led him to Standard Motor Products in 1971. Frank remained a proud and valued member of the company until his well-deserved retirement in 2006. Throughout his remarkable career, he was known for his unwavering dedication and famously never missed a single day of work. This was a true testament to his extraordinary sense of responsibility, perseverance, and commitment.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Frank possessed a vibrant and generous spirit. He found great joy in life’s simple pleasures, especially gathering with family and enjoying the rhythm of good music. Above all, family was at the center of his heart. His grandchildren brought him tremendous joy, and he deeply cherished the time he spent with them. The love he shared with his family will remain one of the most treasured parts of his legacy.

Frank was preceded in death by his beloved father, Leo; his devoted mother, Caroline; his brother, Keneth; his cherished wife, Ramdai; and his former wife, Roma, with whom he shared seven loving children: Frank Jr., Sheron, Catalina, Marcela, Ilka, Omar, and Sergio. He also opened his heart to and lovingly embraced two stepchildren, Ashanti and Troy, as well as Denise, a dear neighbor whom Frank considered a daughter.

Frank’s enduring legacy lives on through his expansive and loving family, including 37 grandchildren, 53 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-granddaughter, each of whom carries a piece of his love and spirit. He is also survived by his devoted brothers, Leo, Clarence, and Gabriel; his dear sister, Christina; and countless relatives and friends whose lives he touched.

A man of unwavering faith, Frank was known as a true prayer warrior. His faith was not simply something he spoke about. It was reflected in the way he lived, loved, prayed, persevered, and cared for those around him. His life stood as a testament to his profound and steadfast love for Christ.

As we bid farewell to the man affectionately known as the “Mayor of South Road” and “Big Money Frank,” we celebrate a life that was full of faith, family, determination, laughter, music, and love. His presence will be deeply missed, but his influence will continue through the generations he leaves behind.

And in true Big Money Frank fashion, we will always remember the words that captured his larger-than-life spirit:

“If you can’t go big, do not go big at all. Don't even attempt it”

Rest well, Frank. Your work is complete, your legacy is secure, and your love will live on through every life you touched.