Obituary of Franklin Crisler Jr.

Franklin Crisler, Jr.
1937-2026

A Time to be Born

Franklin Crisler, Jr., age 88, was born June 18, 1939, 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.

A Time to Serve

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 area of his life.

A Time to Love and be Loved

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 wedded 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.

Franklin joined Mount Vernon Missionary Baptist Church, where he worshipped faithfully under the leadership of Reverend Jackson. His faith in God remained an important foundation in his life, and he carried that faith with him in how he treated others with kindness, wisdom, and integrity. He was a dedicated servant in Christ and to the church. 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.

Franklin loved to play his father’s guitar for his father was the founder of the Mississipi gospel singing group, The Jackson Southernaires. Franklin was so very proud of his father and all of his accomplishments. 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 demeaner 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.

A Time of Cherished Memories

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; great-grandchildren: Madison Crisler, Marquese Jr., Kareem Beasley, K’von Beasley Crisler, and Kehlani Beasley Crisler; siblings: Madis Lacy, Carolyn Evans, Clarence Pendleton, and Fred Culver along with 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 Cemetery.