Franklin Elbert Loper III (Frank), 64, of Sunflower, passed away suddenly June 25. He is survived by his son, Brandan Loper (Madison Mullen) of Columbus, who was his greatest earthly joy and blessing; his mother, Becky Evans Loper Watson of Raymond, siblings Heath Watson (Brook) of Baton Rouge, LA, Melanie Watson Thompson (Glenn) of Lebanon, TN, Heather Watson Gardner (Rick) of Newburgh, IN, nine nieces and nephews and six great nieces and nephews as well as several aunts and uncles. He was preceded in death by his father, Frank E. Loper, Jr. and brother, Danny Loper, father, Rev. Granville Watson Jr. and his grandparents.
Frank was a graduate of Indianola Academy where he was a multi-sport athlete and gained lasting friendships. He graduated from Mississippi State University and enjoyed a career in sales, much of it in the Columbus/Tupelo area. Frank loved the Mississippi Delta, both its land and its people, and considered it home. Special thanks are extended by the family to Frank's lifelong friend, Walter Pitts, the Pitts family and others at Pitts Farms, particularly Lisa Tharp; as well as Dr. Walter Rose and many Delta friends who provided support and encouragement to Frank in recent years. A celebration of Frank's life will be held at Burton Funeral Home, 634 Highway 82 West in Indianola at 11 am on Saturday, July 23. Burial will be private.