Franklin Albert Arthur
March 15, 2026
CHARLOTTE – Franklin Albert Arthur was born August 3, 1927, in Washington, DC. His early years included a tour in the Navy, and a brief time with the Potomac Electric Power Company, and ultimately, a 27-year storied career with the US Park Police: entering the force as a Corporal and retiring as Assistant Chief. He exemplified their motto - Integrity, Honor, Service. During that time, he met and married Sue Ripley in 1959 and together they raised four children: Sean, Kim, Angie, and Cam.
After Sue's passing, and while always adhering to his personal mantra, "Get yourself up Frank," he met the second love of his life, Janet Livingston. They married in 1991 and Frank was blessed with four additional grown children; Michael, Beth, Susan, and Matt.
His huge, blended family included lots of in-laws, nieces and nephews, and ultimately fifteen grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. He could frequently be overhead saying, "I'm a lucky man."
Over the years his artistic interests led him to create multiple works of art, from woodburnings to wood working master pieces. He'd chuckle whenever a family member loved one of his new creations because it often meant he had to make multiples of the same.
Frank enjoyed being outside with all the kids; annual beach trips found him swimming in the ocean well into his 90s. He liked cross word puzzles, big band jazz, watching sports, playing golf, and traveling.
He "got himself up" for the last time on Sunday, March 15, 2026. He left this Earth surrounded by family and took up permanent residence in the hearts of all who loved him. We all agree with Pop that he was indeed a lucky man, and his mantra will forever be the voice in our heads.
Services will be private.
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.
Comments
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Janet and family: I would like to share a few memories about Frank:
I remember in the mid 70s that a friend and I came across country and stayed for a week with the family in Clinton. Frank worked for the national Park service at the time, and he got us VIP tours of Congress, the White House, the FBI, etc.
In the mid 80s, we all convened in Clinton for Nini‘s 80th birthday party. I remember we spent a lot of time on the back porch, drinking beer and telling jokes.
I was there a time or two after that, in Washington DC for business, and had more good visits with the family.
I remember maybe 15 or 20 years ago that Frank and Janet came out to San Diego, and stayed with my parents. More good visits.
frank’s obituary was beautiful. It captured the essence of a man, that lived for practically a century.
I wish the family the best.
Mike Ripley. -
Frank Arthur was an amazing man. I was lucky enough to have him as an uncle, as he married my Aunt Sue well we still lived back in West Virginia and Ohio I have fond memories of him, through the years after we moved out to San Diego in 1960. It seems like he was there a lot on business. I have stories to share another time, but for now, a shout out to Sean, Kim, Angie and camela, and all of Frank's extended family he shared with Janet! He truly was a remarkable man! For those of us lucky enough to have been in his life, you all know what I mean! Love to all, John Allen Ripley...
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Uncle Frank was a family favorite. He was a nice man and showed the California relatives such hospitality when we would come to visit. He had impressive tales of his years working with the Park Police in DC.
Wishing Janet and the family wonderful memories.. -
Angie Ayala Frank’s daughter is a dear friend here in Florida. She shared the beautiful obituary of her dad. What a wonderful life! And a great by line “get yourself up!“
My condolences to the family
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