Obituary of Franklin Crisler Jr.
Franklin Crisler, Jr.
1937-2026
Franklin Crisler, Jr., age 88, was born June 18, 1937, in Crystal Springs, Mississippi, to the late Louvenia
Pendleton and Frank Crisler Sr. He peacefully transitioned on February 26, 2026, having lived a life
characterized by service, devotion, wisdom, and unwavering love for God and his family.
Franklin proudly served his country in the United States Army. He was also a 32nd Degree Mason,
reflecting his commitment to leadership, brotherhood, and lifelong learning.
As a hardworking man of exceptional discipline and dedication, Franklin was employed by Xerox
Corporation for over 40 years, where he faithfully served until his retirement. His strong work ethic and
commitment to excellence were evident in every aspect of his life.
A defining moment in Franklin’s life was meeting Jewel, the woman who would become his lifelong
partner. At their first encounter, he looked at her with confidence and said, “You are going to be my
wife one day.” She stood there surprised and shocked by such an emphatic statement. What began as
a bold declaration developed into a beautiful love story. His declaration proved true, and Jewel became
the love of his life. They were wed in 1964, and the two of them shared many years of marital bliss.
Franklin remained a devoted, faithful and loving husband and provider throughout their journey
together. He was the head of his household and a true protector of his wife and two children. He took
great pride in providing for his family and ensuring their needs were met. He was a present and loving
father—supportive, and deeply involved, guiding his children with wisdom courage, and love. He
represented strength and courage in every season of life.
A man of God, Franklin shared wisdom freely. He loved telling stories about what life was like when he
was younger, teaching lessons about perseverance, faith, and resilience. People often came just to sit
with him and listen because his words carried experience, truth, and understanding.
He enjoyed watching old western movies, fishing, traveling, playing pool, swimming, going to the
YMCA, cooking (especially frying fish), and going for long drives with his beloved wife. He also loved
talking on the CB radio, where he was known by his handle name, “Meat Skin.” He will be remembered
as a man of many talents, including playing the guitar, singing, solving mathematical problems, and
saving money. One of his special songs was “Nee Na Nae” which he sung as a lullaby. He was admired,
respected, and loved by many. His wisdom, knowledge, sense of humor, leadership, kind heart and
straightforward demeanor which had such an impact on countless individuals, will never be forgotten.
His special tone of voice when asking someone: “Bring me a Pepsi and a cup of ice” still resonates in
our ears.
Franklin is preceded in death by his parents, Franklin Crisler Sr. and Louvenia Pendleton; his siblings:
Howard Crisler and Jerry Pendleton, both of Chicago, Illinois, Donnie Pendleton and Stanley Pendleton,
both of Jackson, Mississippi.
He leaves to cherish his memory: his devoted wife, Jewel Crisler; two children, Frank (Cindy) Crisler
and Denoris Crisler, all of Rochester, New York; grandchildren: Kerima Crisler, Marquese Crisler, Frank
D. (Devon) Crisler, Imani Crisler, and Essence Brownlee; three great-grandchildren: Madison Crisler,
Marquese Jr., and Kareem Beasley; and a host of nephews, nieces, cousins and friends.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, March 13th at Noon (Visitation 11-Noon) at the Mircale Valley Deliverance Church, 290 North St. Interment: Riverside