Our Unique Stories

frank mosley

1883-1968

Life Story

Faithful Deacon • Altare Native • Community Servant

Early Life in the Altare Community

Frank Mosley was born on June 3, 1885, in the historic Altare Community of Newton County, Mississippi, a place deeply rooted in Black family networks, church life, and agricultural traditions. He was the son of Sherrod Mosley (1859–?) and Nancy Jane Evans (1868–?), connecting him to two of the long-standing African American families of Newton County.

Growing up in a rural farming environment, Frank attended public school and learned early the values of faith, family, and hard work—principles that would shape the rest of his life.

Religious Life and Service

At a young age, Frank united with the St. Paul Baptist Church in Montrose. His commitment to church life remained steadfast as he matured. After relocating to Bay Springs, he united with the First Baptist Church, where he became a faithful deacon.

Frank’s leadership in the church made him a spiritual anchor in his community. He was known for his steady presence, devotion to service, and ability to encourage others through his faith.

Marriages and Family

Frank married Fannie Alexander, and one child was born to this union:

  • Mrs. Gloria Ruth Thames

Later in life he married Mrs. Lula Moreland, who remained his devoted wife until his passing.

Frank’s family ties extended widely throughout Newton and Jasper Counties. Through his Mosley and Evans lineage, he maintained strong connections to multiple generations of relatives.

Siblings

Frank was part of a large and close-knit family. His surviving siblings included:

  • Mrs. Ida Kennedy, Newton
  • Mrs. Mary Loper, Newton
  • Mrs. Flossie Evans, Montrose
  • Joe Mosley, Newton
  • Willie Mosley, Jackson

He was cherished by 10 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren, reflecting his lasting legacy across generations.

Work and Community Standing

Frank lived for several years in Newton before settling in Bay Springs. Known for his warm spirit, he cultivated lasting friendships in both communities. His life of service extended beyond the church: he was also a member of the Masonic Lodge, and at his funeral, members of the Lodge conducted the graveside service—a testament to the respect he earned.

Illness and Passing

Frank became ill weeks before his death and passed away on February 11, 1968, at Jasper General Hospital. His funeral took place on Sunday, February 18, at the Bay Springs Church, with Rev. G. G. Chandler officiating and Rev. Wills assisting. Tributes were shared by church members, honoring a man who lived his faith openly and generously.

He was laid to rest in City Cemetery in Bay Springs, Mississippi, under the direction of Bay Springs Funeral Home.

SIDEBAR: Key Facts About Frank Mosley

Birth & Heritage

  • Born: June 3, 1885, Altare Community, Newton County
  • Father: Sherrod Mosley (1859–?)
  • Mother: Nancy Jane Evans (1868–?)

Church Membership

  • Early member, St. Paul Baptist Church, Montrose
  • Later deacon, First Baptist Church, Bay Springs

Marriages

  1. Fannie Alexander – one child
  2. Lula Moreland – wife at time of death

Children

  • Mrs. Gloria Ruth Thames

Siblings

  • Ida Kennedy
  • Mary Loper
  • Flossie Evans
  • Joe Mosley
  • Willie Mosley

Organizations

  • Member, Masonic Lodge

Death & Burial

Burial: City Cemetery, Bay Springs, Mississippi

Died: February 11, 1968, Jasper General Hospital

Funeral: Bay Springs Church

Transcription of Obituary: Frank Mosley

FRANK MOSLEY

Frank Mosley was born June 3, 1885, in the Altare Community, Newton County, being the son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Sherrod Mosley. He attended public school and at an early age united with the St. Paul Baptist Church at Montrose. Some years later he moved to Bay Springs where he united with the First Baptist Church and served as a faithful deacon until his death, Feb. 11, 1968, at 1 p.m. He became ill a number of weeks earlier and his death occurred at Jasper General Hospital there.

He was married to Mrs. Fannie Alexander and one child was born to this union. In later years he married Mrs. Lula Moreland. He resided in Newton for several years and had many friends in this area.

In addition to his wife, Mosley leaves a daughter, Mrs. Gloria Ruth Thames; three sisters, Mrs. Ida Kennedy and Mrs. Mary Loper, both of Newton, Mrs. Flossie Evans of Montrose; two brothers, Joe Mosley of Newton and Willie Mosley of Jackson; 10 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren.

His funeral was held at the Bay Springs Church Sunday, Feb. 18 at 2 p.m. Rev. G. G. Chandler, pastor, officiated, assisted by Rev. Wills. Expressions were made by members of the church. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge and Masons were in charge of the graveside service in City Cemetery. Bay Springs Funeral Home directing.

Resting Place

Bay Springs, Mississippi City Cemetery

Photos/Albums

Sources

  • U.S., Social Security Applications and Claims Index, 1936-2007
  • The Newton Record, Frank Mosley Obituary, Wed, Feb 21, 1968 ·Page 6

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