January 17, 2022, 68, La Grange –
Joseph Franklin “Frank” Herring, 68, departed for his heavenly flight on Monday, January 17, 2022. Frank was born in Wayne County to the late Jake Thomas Herring, Jr. and Christine Gautier Herring on June 28, 1953. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Jake Thomas “Sonny” Herring, III; mother-in-law, Kathleen P. Whitley; father-in-law, Edwin Pelletier, Sr.; and brothers-in-law, Tommy Pelletier and Jack Arnold.
Upon retiring from DuPont as a C.P. operator, Frank found additional time to enjoy his greatest loves. For him, the sights of God’s creation were best experienced on the roads, upon the water, or in the air. As often as possible, Frank took to the skies for majestic views of the local area. If he wasn’t in the air himself, he’d often take a trip to Seymour Johnson to watch the fighter jets do touch and goes. Riding the open roads to view the countryside in his old Ford pickup, or even on his Harley, or cruising around town in his convertible were daily routines which he looked forward to. The wind in his face when navigating his boat upon the water, or the calm breeze as he drifted downstream in his canoe, was only made better by the company he enjoyed while there.
Boasting an extensive collection of arrowheads, Frank enjoyed the adventure of the hunt as he walked over hundreds of acres of land to find his next prized possession. His passion for hunting and searching for arrowheads was something he shared with members of his family, helping them to learn the skills and appreciate the efforts. His love of old cars, trucks, and tractors was also imparted on his family as he enjoyed offering their first experiences driving a tractor or teaching them how to drive a straight-shift vehicle.
With a smile always adorning his face, Frank’s sense of humor and jovial personality appealed to all who knew him. Those he loved best were never called by their given name as he made a nickname for each one. From the moment he awakened until he drifted off to sleep, you could bet that he was carrying on some deal of foolishness. He loved a good chuckle but, even better, loved to bring a laugh to others. Afternoons at Sam’s had to be full of a little mischief when he and his buddies got together to swap stories and share life.
Loving good food and knowing all the best places to find it, conversations with Frank most often included his recommendation for where to find a good meal. He was the greatest advertisement for the establishments he enjoyed. A decent cook in his own right, he delighted in the chance to cook a stew or fry fish.
What started as a blind date with Sherie Pelletier turned into a 43-year commitment of love and loyalty as the two were wed and created a happy life together. Through thick and thin, they stood beside each other, attending to every need and taking into account the best opportunities for the other one.
Holding a high regard for his country and his elders, Frank lived the virtues he was taught as a young boy. He held our nation’s military in the highest regard and believed in supporting our troops, standing for the flag, and being thankful for the freedoms we enjoy. Respectful and polite to those older than he, his language showed reverence and his actions showed concern. He was willing to do anything to help those advanced in age.
A service of love and remembrance will be held on Monday, January 24, 2022 at 3:00 PM at Rouse Funeral Home with Rev. Linda Grider officiating. The family will receive friends in the hour prior to the service. Committal will follow the service at Fairview Cemetery, La Grange. The family requests that masks be worn for the duration of services.
Frank is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Sherie Pelletier Herring; nephew, Charlie Herring and wife, Lori and their children, Caroline and Jake; sisters- and brothers-in-law, Linda Herring, Edwin Pelletier, Jr and wife, Peggy, Brenda Arnold, Donna Murphy and husband, Cliff, and Lynn Pelletier; as well as many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.rousefh.com. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to La Grange United Methodist Church, 213 S. Caswell Street, La Grange, NC 28551; Institute United Methodist Church, c/o Wiley Dawson, 3084 Byrd Road, La Grange, NC 28551; La Grange First Free Will Baptist Church, 802 S. Caswell Street, La Grange, NC 28551; or to the Gary Sinise Foundation at www.garysinisefoundation.org/donate. Arrangements are entrusted to Rouse Funeral Home, La Grange.
