Frank Shanklin, a beloved member of the Ada, Oklahoma community, passed away on January 17, 2024, at the age of 83. Born on December 26, 1940, in Arlington, Texas, to William Frank Shanklin and Inez (Duty) Shanklin, Frank's life was marked by dedication, service, and a profound love for family and community.

Growing up in a military family, Frank's early years were shaped by travels across Air Force bases in the U.S. and Germany. He graduated from high school in Fairfax, Virginia, and pursued higher education, earning a Bachelor's degree from Central State University and a Master's degree from Oklahoma State University. In 1978, he married Gail Hart Muir, beginning a partnership that would bring joy and shared adventures.

Frank's professional journey led him to the state of Oklahoma's Office of Juvenile Affairs before embarking on a fulfilling career as a professor at East Central University in Ada. He dedicated decades to shaping young minds, retiring from teaching in 1998.

Devoted to community service, Frank played an active role in the Ada community.  He served as a literacy tutor, presided over the board of the Family Crisis Center, and chaired the Pontotoc County Democratic Party. A committed Rotarian, Frank contributed to numerous fundraisers and community service projects, earning recognition as a past President of the Ada Rotary Club and a Paul Harris Fellow.

Sports enthusiast Frank found joy in tennis and occasional rounds of golf. He was a loyal supporter of St. Louis Cardinal baseball and University of Oklahoma sports.  Frank embraced his love for reading and always had a book going.

Together with Gail, Frank explored the world through travel, not only within the United States but also in 23 countries overseas. His passion for bridge led him to serve as the Director of the Ada Area Bridge Club for many years. Frank's wit, charm, and genuine interest in others made him a delightful conversationalist, earning him the reputation as "one of the good guys.

Frank Shanklin is survived by his wife, Gail; his children Chartelle Verdugo, Santa Rosa, California; Counsel Shanklin, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; Ashley White (Terry), Moore, Oklahoma; his brother John Shanklin (Fay); grandchildren Kyle Tarrant, Lucas Tarrant, Elias Verdugo, and Katy White; and a great-grandchild Sage Tarrant. He also leaves behind his sweet dog Molly. Frank was preceded in death by his parents, sister Linda Lawrence, and grandson Wiley White.

A come-and-go memorial service to celebrate Frank's life will be held on Saturday.  February 10, from 2:00 to 4:00 at The Venue on Main, 116 W. Main Street, Ada, Oklahoma. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Pontotoc Literacy Coalition, the ECU Foundation, or Pontotoc Animal Welfare Society.

Frank Shanklin's legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew him, and his impact on the community will be remembered with gratitude and fondness.