February 22, 1954 – April 23, 2023
NAGS HEAD — Franklin Pauley, 69, of Nags Head, NC, formally Bristol, VA, died peacefully at home from complications of Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP). He donated his brain to the University of Miami Brain Bank, where researchers from around the world study PSP in hopes of finding a cure. Franklin did not want a funeral, so a graveside service will be held at a later date in Bristol, VA, where Franklin’s wife and parents are buried.
Franklin was born on February 22, 1954 to Charles and Mary (Barnett) Pauley. He graduated from Virginia High School in 1972 and loved growing up in Bristol, VA. Franklin attended Carson-Newman University on a football scholarship until a knee injury caused him to quit playing.
He proudly served six years in the Navy. When Franklin retired, he was the owner of The Four Seasons Lawn Service.
Franklin married Cynthia Rose and they had two sons, Forrest and Seth. Although they later divorced, they remained friends. After the boys were grown, Franklin married his true love, Janet Williams. They had ten good years together, before Janet died unexpectedly. In 2019, Franklin was diagnosed with PSP, a rare neurological disorder with no cure. In 2020, he sold his home in Bristol, VA, and moved to Nags Head, NC to live with his sister, Mary Jo, and his brother-in-law, John. Franklin spent the remainder of his life enjoying family and friends at the beach.
Franklin is survived by his sons, Forrest (Katie), in Colorado Springs, CO, and Seth (Chrystal McNeilly), in Lewiston, Maine. Franklin’s greatest joy was his four grandchildren, Elsa and George Pauley in Colorado Springs, and Matthew McNeilly and Patrick Demmons in Lewiston, Maine. His sister, Mary Jo Wagner (John Swope), lives in Nags Head, NC. Until his death, Franklin remained close with his special friend, Gail Senter, in Bristol, VA.
When you think about Franklin, you immediately think about football. He played high school and college football. Franklin never watched a football game- -high school, college, or pros that he didn’t enjoy. Franklin always put his family first and just loved being with them. He never let his family forget how much he loved them, and how proud he was of them.
Franklin enjoyed being outside. He often called SW Virginia “God’s country”. He deeply believed it was our task to take care of God’s creation, and he practiced this belief throughout his life.
If you wish to honor Franklin’s life, become an organ donor, watch a football game, plant a tree, volunteer in your community, or spend time with your family. Even in death, Franklin has made us laugh. Remember to laugh!
Twiford Funeral Homes, Outer Banks is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.TwifordFH.com.
