Franklin (Frank) Delano Yelton, 88, died peacefully in his home on November 17, 2021.

Frank was born in Boiling Springs, NC. He was raised alongside his brothers and a sister by his loving mother, Sallie Elison. In 1976, Frank moved to Savannah with his wife Betty. 

Franklin is preceded in death by his mother, Sallie Elison; his first wife of 30 years, Betty Wall Yelton; as well as his longtime companion, Claire Rosemary Cramer; and five brothers.

He is survived by two daughters, Judith Leaptrot and Robin Tarvin; son-in-law, Michael D. Tarvin; granddaughter Renee Hill; great-granddaughters, Zoe, Chloe, and Ceara Morris; brother, Lloyd Yelton and sister, Virginia Toney.

Frank proudly served in the USCG, retiring as a Chief Warrant Officer after 30 years of service, traveling throughout the world from Okinawa to the Bering Straits of Alaska. He went on to teach diesel mechanics at Savannah Tech for 12 years, inspiring students to pursue new vocations. He concluded his career in public relations for Testmaster Inc. at age 84. Frank was dedicated to a lifetime of hard work, but even more he was devoted to spending time with his family. Each Sunday dinner, holiday, and birthday spent together was cherished. 

Frank was an avid golfer and a member of Hunter Golf Club. He could be found many mornings on the golf course where he made long lasting friendships, earning the nick-name, “The Shot-Maker.”

Beloved husband, dad, grandaddy, and great-grandaddy, we will always remember your sweet smile, witty sense of humor, and generous heart. Together we have weathered many storms, and now you have finally arrived in calm waters.  “Fair winds and smooth sailing.”

Special thanks to Hospice Savannah and our caregiver angels; Florence, Candace, Jamilla, LaKesha and Gentle Hands Home Health Care for their compassion to our family. 

The family welcomes donations to Wounded Warrior Project,  P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516 or Hospice Savannah, P.O. Box 13190, Savannah, GA 31416..

Visitation will be 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., Monday, November 22, 2021 at Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Islands Chapel. 

Graveside service will be 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, November 23, 2021 in Greenwich section of Bonaventure Cemetery.