Frank Jordan Reilly, Jr. went to be with the Lord on August 16, 2023. He was born on April 2, 1932 to Alice Semmes Reilly and Frank Jordan Reilly, Sr. in Hattiesburg, MS before moving to Jackson where he spent the majority of his life.
Frank graduated from Central High School in 1950 where he was voted senior class president by his fellow classmates. After delivering the Central High Class of 1950’s graduation speech, he enrolled in the University of Mississippi where he was a member of the Kappa Alpha Order and participated in the school’s ROTC program.
After graduation, Frank married the love of his life and childhood sweetheart, Alice Carter O’Ferrall Reilly, in 1954. Together, they moved to Norfolk, VA where Frank began his service in the United States Navy. From VA, they transferred to Aruba NWI before returning home to Jackson, MS in 1958.
Once back in Jackson, Frank bought and ran Robinson Julianne Bailey selling insurance for many years. Through work, Frank built life-long relationships with friends and families all over Jackson. He was an active member of the Capitol Investment Group within which he and Alice were able to travel the world, learning and experiencing new cultures. Though Frank cherished these memories of travel, he and Alice both were happiest at home in Jackson with their family. They loved spending weekends in the grove with family and friends cheering on their beloved Ole Miss rebels.
Frank was a known tennis player in the Jackson area with a love for the sport that he passed on to his children and grandchildren. He excelled as a doubles player, competing in tournaments all over the state of Mississippi. Frank also enjoyed golfing and playing bridge with friends. In his later years, he looked forward to days spent at the Bridge House where he became a regular attendee.
Above his work and extracurriculars, Frank held his love for the Lord and relationships with friends and family as his top priorities. He loved reading his devotional at night with his wife, Alice, a tradition he continued with her in heaven even after she passed.
Frank is survived by his daughters, Semmes Van Brocklin of Oxford, MS, Robin Edwards (Orrin) of Charlotte, NC, grandchildren, Reilly Van Brocklin of Atlanta, GA, Carr Van Brocklin (Lizzie) of New Orleans, LA, Alison Van Brocklin of Oxford, MS, Jordan Beall (Roddy) of San Diego, CA, and Tori Edwards of San Diego, CA, a great-grandson, Fitz Van Brocklin, and a great-granddaughter, Margot Van Brocklin. As well as, many nieces, nephews, and devoted cousins, all of whom knew him as “Gonzo”.
The family would like to thank the staff and residents of the Orchard, as well as Baptist Hospice for their love and kindness.
There will be a graveside service at Lakewood Cemetery on Wednesday, August 23rd, followed by a visitation at First Presbyterian Church at 10:30 with a celebration of Frank’s life in the sanctuary immediately following at 11:00.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First Presbyterian Church, 1390 North State Street, Jackson, MS 39202, Baptist Hospice, 1200 N State St Ste 480 Jackson, MS 39202, or charity of your choice.
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