Frank William Ix, IV

July 5, 2023

CHARLOTTE – Frank William Ix IV, 71, formerly of Demarest, NJ, went to his eternal rest on Wednesday, July 5, 2023 after a brave battle with Parkinson’s disease.  

Born in Charlotte, Frank graduated from Boston College, where he was the captain of the golf team.  He went on to earn his MBA from the University of Virginia.  Leaving the cold of the northeast for the warmer, greener south was always part of Frank’s grand plan, as it allowed him to play golf year-round.  From links in Kiawah, Linville, Pebble Beach, Augusta, and his home in Charlotte, Frank was happiest with a 9-iron in his hand.  His love of all sports extended beyond his own passions; Frank spent many joy-filled nights and weekends attending his daughter’s horse shows and coaching his son’s baseball and hockey teams.

Frank was a credit executive for various community banks before retiring with South State Bank. He served on several boards in Charlotte, but the one that touched his heart dearly was InReach, which provides services to those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Frank was the oldest of 11 children and the pride and joy of his late parents, Frank and Marilyn. As the firstborn, he led in every way, every day, teaching his younger siblings how to drive a stick-shift car, how to be an attentive golf caddy, and how to mow the lawn the way their dad expected.  He was adored as a kind and trusted guiding light.

Frank had a wealth of friends with whom he and Betsy enjoyed dining out, going to the movies, traveling, and above all, laughing.  Whether it was a quick trip to the beach, the mountains, or an extended cruise, Frank was always a gentle spirit, great listener, and consummate gentleman. Every day was a complete blessing with Betsy by his side, a Facetime with his grandchildren, and a Boston College or Virginia game on television.

During his final years, Frank was supported by his caregivers Lee, Jim, Gladys and Satchel, for whom the family thanks for their outstanding care and dedication.

Frank is survived by his beloved wife, Betsy (Branson) Ix; daughter, Courtney Ix Mebane and her husband, Robert; son, Frank J. Ix and his wife, Charlotte; his adoring grandchildren to whom he was affectionately known as “Chick”, Lanier, Thomas, and Billy.  Also surviving are his siblings, Courtney Thompson and her husband, Robert, Terrence Ix and his wife, Beth, Alison Lutes and her husband, David, Anthony Ix and his wife, Patricia, Brian Ix and his wife, Karen, Stephen Ix and his wife, Karen, Catherine Ix, Gerard Ix and his wife, Lisa as well as numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.  He was predeceased by his siblings, Christopher and Suzanne.

The family extends a special thanks to Keri and Danielle from Via Health Partners for their kind and gentle hearts.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, July 11, 2023, at St. Gabriel Catholic Church, 3016 Providence Road, Charlotte, NC.  The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be offered in memory of Frank to InReach, 4530 Park Road, Suite 300, Charlotte, NC 28209 or The Humane Society of Charlotte, 1348 Parker Drive, Charlotte, NC 28208.

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606. Online condolences may be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.

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Comments

  • Beth Schmieg

    Working with Frank at the Bank of Mecklenburg was a great pleasure. Frank was such a wonderful man with a laid back since of humor. My prayers to the family.

  • Mary Settlemyre

    Betsy, I am so sad to hear of Frank's passing. Frank is one of the kindest people I have ever known - a true gentleman. I was so blessed by the years that I worked with him at Bank of Mecklenburg. Prayers for peace and comfort to you and your family.

  • Bill Traina

    The young Ix family lived two doors away from my childhood home in Tenafly NJ. Frank was two years older than me, but I was able to share several experiences with him and Chris who was closer to me in age and my good friend. Frank always seemed the leader in his quiet way and I admired him. In recent years we were able to reconnect through social media and a trip he made to Wrightsville Beach in NC where I have lived for 33 years. We were both UVA alums and fans which was a surprise. I loved catching up on the rest of the family with Frank and send my sincere condolences to each you, his brothers and sisters.

  • Stephen O'Connor

    Frank was a dear and important childhood friend. I have such fond memories of building treehouses with him, playing capture the flag and football, and of helping each other deal with the new and confusing world of adolescence. Although I have not seen him in many years, the thought of his not being on this earth makes me very sad. I send my condolences to his whole family, but especially to his siblings Courtney, Terry and Alison. Big hugs to you guys!
    --Steve