William Frank Suddeth

William Frank Suddeth August 31, 1945 - January 21, 2010 William F. "Frank" Suddeth, Jr., age 64, passed away peacefully on Jan. 21, 2010, at his home in the loving care and comfort of his family. Frank, a native of St. Augustine and graduate of St. Augustine High School Class of 1962, was a well known and honored local historian, teacher and artist. Having served in the USAF from 1963 to1967, he later graduated with a Bachelors of Science in Education from the University of Florida. Between 1971 and 1996 he taught history in St. Johns County schools. During this time, he expanded his passion for history by working as a part time park ranger at the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, continuing in his grandfather Matthew Suddeth's footsteps, the elder having been a guide at the Castillo in the 1920's. In retirement, Frank continued as a volunteer at the Fort, and worked as a licensed city tour guide, serving as an ambassador of goodwill to all who met him on the streets of the Ancient City. In his spare time Frank drew and published several historical children's coloring books and books on military uniforms. In addition, he created a Florida History Educational Series used by school groups visiting the city. A member of the St. Augustine Historical Society and the Spanish Garrison of St. Augustine, Frank was a local re-enactor of both the Spanish and British Colonial periods. In 1994 Frank was honored by his nomination and induction into the Company of Military Historians. Frank's enthusiasm for life and endearing love for his family, friends and St. Augustine will be fondly remembered and cherished by all those fortunate enough to have been touched by his warmth and gentle kindness. Frank is survived by his loving mother, Elsie M. Suddeth, St. Augustine; his brothers and sisters-in-law; Robert and Judith Suddeth, St. Augustine and Thomas and Diane Suddeth, Houston Texas; his sister and brother-in-law Deborah and Richard Manley, Reston Virginia; and by his fourteen loving nieces and nephews, and a large extensive family of friends. He is sadly preceded in death by his father William F. Suddeth, Sr. and by his daughter Jennifer Suddeth. Services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 27th at Anastasia Baptist Church with Rev. David Moore and Rev. Ron Moore officiating. Interment with military honors conducted by the St. Augustine Garrison will follow at Evergreen Cemetery. A visitation of family and friends will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, January 26th at St. Johns Family Funeral Home. Flowers will be graciously accepted and/or donations given in his memory to St. Augustine Garrison, 1960 US Hwy 1 South, PMB 193, St. Augustine, FL 32086. St. Johns Family Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.