Frank Watson Robertson

Frank Watson Robertson, 89, completed his earthly journey on October 19, 2015, at his home in Quitman, Texas, with his loving family at his side.

A visitation will be held from 6pm-8pm on Tuesday, October 20, 2015, in Quitman, Texas, at Faith Baptist Church. Another visitation will be held from 6pm-8pm on Wednesday, October 21, 2015, in Grand Prairie, Texas at Bean Massey Burge Funeral Home. A memorial service to honor him will be held at 2pm on Thursday, October 22, 2015, at First Baptist Church in Grand Prairie, Texas. Burial will follow at Watson Cemetery in Arlington, Texas.

Frank was born January 7, 1926, in Dallas, Texas, to Alvy L. and Anna Mae Watson Robertson. He was the 2nd of two children. He grew up in the Dallas area and graduated from Grand Prairie High School in 1942. Frank was a World War II veteran, and in 1943 at the age of 17, he joined the U.S. Navy and served aboard the U.S.S. Ranger. He achieved the rank of 2nd Class Petty Officer prior to his honorable discharge in 1946. He re-enlisted in the Navy Reserves in 1950 and served for an additional 1½ years at the Naval Air Station in Grand Prairie.

He met Bobbie, the love of his life, at First Baptist Church in Grand Prairie, where they were married on December 13, 1946, and have spent the last 68 years together. He spent his professional career in the insurance industry. He was employed by Employers Casualty in 1952 and worked in sales in Dallas and Abilene. In 1958, he was promoted into management and managed their district offices in Sherman, Waco, and Dallas. In 1980 he went to work for Marsh & McLennan, a worldwide insurance brokerage firm, and retired as a senior vice president in 1990.

Frank was a Mason for over 65 years and he was a true believer in civic affairs. He served a total of twenty-one years in elective offices on both the School Board and City Council in Grand Prairie. During this time, he also served as President of the School Board, as well as Mayor Pro-Tem. He served on numerous committees and boards while on the Council, including the Grand Prairie Sports Corporation, which was instrumental in the construction and establishment of Lone Star Park. In 2004 Lone Star Park brought world-class horse racing to the metroplex by hosting the Breeders’ Cup. The City of Grand Prairie named the municipal court building the Frank W. Robertson Municipal Courts Building in 1999 as a tribute to his service.

He is survived by his wife Bobbie, daughter Carolyn Robertson Landers (John), son David Robertson (Lisa), daughter-in-law Marilyn Robertson, sister Jo Campbell; four grandchildren -- Gordon Shockley, Leslie Sperling (Clint), Lori McCombie, and Reed Robertson; six great-grandchildren -- Gabe, Keegan & Chloe McCombie, Maya Herrera, Helen and Andie Sperling, and his favorite dog Miss Priss.

Preceding him in death were his parents and his son, Larry Robertson.

The family wishes to thank the caregivers who provided special and loving care to Frank in the last stage of his life. They were truly a blessing to him.

Flowers are welcome; however, if you wish to make a donation in Frank’s memory, please donate to an animal rescue facility of your choice or to Cal Farley’s Boys Ranch in Amarillo, TX.

Though he earned no prestigious degrees in this life,

his lack of formal education

does not diminish his accomplishments.

He earned the respect and admiration

of so many in our community and beyond.

He was a sharp businessman,

was generous beyond measure,

and had the heart of a true servant.

“. . . Well done, thou good and faithful servant….”

Matthew 25:21