Alan Franklin Johnson, known by all as “Frank or Frankie” passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 3rd, 2025 in Fredericktown, MO at the age of 67.
Frank was born on August 28th,1957 in Ironton, Missouri to John and Wanda Johnson. Frank was incredibly proud of his roots in the Silvermine area, where the hills and hollows shaped both his character and his sense of home.
He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Mary Jo (Joan and Bill Whitener) and son, Drew Johnson (Shelby) and daughter, Nicki Drysdale (Andrew) and six grandchildren: Carter (17), Aubrey (15), Jaxon (11), Lydia (8), Ronni (9) and Riggs (6). Frank is also survived by sister Pam Koerner (Ron), sister Sandy Tripp and brother Wayne Johnson.
Frank was preceded in death by his parents, brother David (2021), brother John Darrell (2020), sister-in-law Becky (2016), and brother-in-law, Jerry Tripp (2018).
He was known as Uncle Frank to numerous nieces and nephews, and had more cousins than he could count, all of whom he loved dearly.
Frank spent most of his young adulthood out on drilling rigs, where he quickly learned his trade inside & out, becoming reputable in the field. Years of experience led to a career in equipment sales and later on owning his own drilling supply company, Hard Rock Drilling. Frank also owned and operated Johnson Cattle Company with his son, Drew.
In later years, chronic back pain limited his ability to live life as fully as he would have liked, but he remained strong in spirit and never lost his sense of humor.
Frank loved hosting and shooting the shit with anyone who’d stop by the shop - a place where stories were shared, laughs were had, and friendships were built over fried chicken and a beer.
Frank’s greatest joy in life came from his family, especially his six grandchildren. They were, without a doubt, his pride and joy. Nothing made him light up more than talking about them. He never missed a milestone, or a funny moment. He loved bragging on their accomplishments to anyone who’d listen whether it was a neighbor, a friend, or a stranger in the grocery store. He took genuine pride in watching them grow and was their biggest supporter, always quick with advice (whether they wanted it or not), or just a proud smile. The steady, unconditional love he gave them is a lasting gift they’ll hold forever.
Frank found peace in the simple things. He loved riding horses, hunting in Barron Hollow (Barn Hollow), checking on the farm, feeding the fish, watching a good western and keeping in touch with the people he cared about. His daily check-ins weren’t just a habit; they were his way of showing he cared.
Frank's legacy isn’t found in big headlines or grand gestures — it’s in the quiet way he showed up for the people he loved, the pride he took in his family, and the life he built with his own two hands. His stories will be told for years, his lessons will be passed down, and his love will echo through the generations.
A visitation will be held on Friday, August 8th, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Follis and Sons Funeral Home in Fredericktown, Missouri, with the funeral service immediately following.
