Remembering Walter Wayne Frank: A Legacy of Service

News Summary

Walter Wayne Frank, affectionately known as ‘Wally,’ has passed away in Williamsburg, Virginia. His life was marked by dedicated military service, contributions to community, and a passion for amateur radio. Known for his mentorship and advocacy, Wally’s legacy will be cherished by family, friends, and the communities he served.

Williamsburg, Virginia – Walter Wayne Frank, affectionately known as “Wally,” passed away, leaving behind a legacy of dedicated service, community engagement, and amateur radio advocacy. Born on August 22, 1948, in New York City to Millard Walter Filmore Frank and Myrtle G. (Saunders) Frank, Wally’s life was marked by his commitment to both his country and his community.

Wally attended New York City Public Schools and graduated from Dewitt Clinton High School. After high school, he enrolled in the RCA Institute in New York City, focusing on technology and communications. His educational background laid the foundation for a career that spanned both military and federal service. Drafted by the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War, he was honorably discharged on June 16, 1975.

During his military service, Wally was involved in the Navy’s Military Auxiliary Radio System (MARS), using his skills to keep service members connected with their families back home. After leaving the Marine Corps, he continued to serve the government as a Systems Engineer for the Department of Defense and later the National Security Agency (NSA), from which he retired on February 2, 2007, after 40 years of diligent work. His contributions to national security were recognized with several awards, including the Director, National Security Agency and Chief, Central Security Service Director’s Distinguished Service Medal, awarded for outstanding service in the cryptologic field.

In addition to his federal work, Wally was a passionate Amateur Radio Operator, obtaining his Technician License as WB2OVV in 1964. Over his 61-year involvement with amateur radio, he achieved the prestigious Amateur Extra Class license by March 1985. Wally was not only dedicated to his practice but also to mentoring new amateur radio operators. He served as the Training Coordinator for the Williamsburg Area Amateur Radio Club (WAARC), assisting students in passing licensing exams and setting up their stations. His contributions extended to local Emergency Preparedness Programs, including James City County’s Community Emergency Response Team (CERT).

Wally was actively involved in organizations that championed inclusivity within the amateur radio community, such as the OMIK Electronics Association, which focused on supporting Black Hams facing discrimination. His early work with the Green Mountain Repeater Association also contributed to regional communications infrastructure.

A Life Member of the American Radio Relay League (ARRL), Wally was deeply invested in his faith and local community. He served in various capacities within different churches, including as Trustee and Sunday School Teacher at Riverdale Baptist Church, and as a Deacon at New Life Assembly. Notably, he volunteered at James City Community Church (JC3), where he was part of the Finance Team and developed engaging activities for children, such as creating a remote-controlled car station.

Wally was well-known for his culinary skills, winning the 2025 Chili Bowl Cook Off at JC3, during which he took pride in showcasing his first-place champion ring in his Ham Shack. He is survived by his wife, Cynthia Frank; his son and daughter-in-law Rodney and Angela Frank; and five grandchildren: Alexis, William, Brianna, Taylor, and Christian. Wally also leaves behind his brother-in-law Jermerial and his wife Charlene Edmonds, along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and a wide circle of friends.

Walter Wayne Frank’s life was marked by a strong sense of duty, passion for technology, and unwavering commitment to his community, ensuring he will be remembered by all who knew him.

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• Walter Wayne Frank Obituary
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• Wikipedia: Amateur Radio
• Google Search: Walter Wayne Frank
• Google Scholar: Amateur Radio Operator
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Radio
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