Walter (Walt) Lee Fraley, Jr. entered this earth as the first born to the late Walter Lee, Sr. and Annie Lee (Clayton) Fraley on August 30, 1941 in Knoxville, Tennessee. He would soon become the older brother to Charlie Lee and five years later to Maxine. He exercised his duties as the protector of each for many years and especially to his sister (“Kid” as he would call her). He answered God’s call on Monday, June 29, 2020.
Walt was educated in the Knoxville school system and earned his high school diploma in 1960. A few years later, he enlisted in the US Army and became an Airborne Infantryman. He served in numerous duty stations both stateside and overseas, Fort Benning, GA; Fort Polk, LA; Germany, Korea, and Panama Canal Zone. Walt served with the 173rd Airborne Reg. Vietnamese Airborne as an Advisor and MACV IN Vietnam. He received numerous awards and Decorations to include the Combat Infantryman Badge, Master Parachute Badge, Army Commendation with “V” Device (valor). His last duty assignment was at Ft. Benning as the NCOIC Tower Number Two. Walter retired from the Military as a Master Sergeant (E-8) after 21 years of Faithful Service to a Grateful Nation.
Walt’s love for his family did not wander as he spent many weekends and holidays returning to his home for visits – even bringing an army buddy with him.
Another love for him was golfing. With his brother, Charlie, also a career soldier, they spent countless hours, days, and weeks playing golf at various courses. Together with other retired military men, the annual golf trip was planned and talked about throughout the year. It was definitely a passion of his as evidence by the number of clubs he owned. He even enjoyed a round of golf with his nephew while in Nashville.
He loved sports and was a pitcher in the little league teams. He looked forward to attending the Southeastern Conference Women’s Basketball Tournaments with Charlie, Carolyn, Natasha, and Kid. Although he lived in Texas, he was a Titans fan.
So many stories exist about his life, his personality, and the kindness he showed to many that it would take a book to fill the anecdotes about the life of our brother, brother-in-law, uncle, and cousin. Walt’s life impacted so many that he will be missed by all whose path he crossed.
Memories of Walt will continue in those who are left to cherish them: brother, SGM Charlie (Carolyn) Fraley (retired), Radcliff, KY; devoted sister, Maxine Cunningham (Antioch, TN); sisters, Daisy Robinson & Betty Fraley (Atlanta, GA); Mattie Clemmons (deceased), Lillian Terry, Sandra Foskey, & Mae Hall- all of New Jersey; daughter, Rashenda Fraley; grandchildren, Deshawn Reid and Amari Fraley (Atlanta, GA); Nephews, Byron (Leicest) Fraley (Orlando, FL); Derrick (Tracey) Cunningham (Antioch, TN); Nieces, Natasha Fraley (Radcliff, KY); Sherry Dove (Hopkinsville KY); Toshika Fraley-Gregg (Irmo, NC) and Denisha White (Antioch, TN); great nephew and nieces; numerous cousins, and life-long friends.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.grandprairiefh.com for the Fraley family.
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