Frank Speight Rountree

   Frank Speight Rountree, 75, of 76 Mill Pond Road, Gatesville, NC, passed away on Friday, January 1, 2021 in his home where he was cared for by his family.

   Frank was born in Gatesville on February 25, 1945, and lived in the county most of his life. He was a guidance counselor at Gates County High School and Vocational Director for Gates County Schools for a total of 31 years.

   Raised in the fellowship of Middle Swamp Baptist Church, he was a faithful member of Beulah Baptist Church in Sunbury, where he had served as a Sunday School teacher for the Men’s Class, and as a Deacon. An avid reader, he also enjoyed boating on the local creeks and rivers. However, his greatest love was for his Lord and family. Being a husband, father, and a grandpa brought him so much pleasure.

   Frank was preceded in death by his parents, John Byrum Rountree, Sr. and Addie Frank Speight Rountree; by an infant sister, Joyce Marie; and by his brother, J.B. Rountree, Jr.

   Surviving is his wife of 47 years, Jane Daniels Rountree. Also left to cherish his memory are his daughter, Sarah Fry and husband, Sheldon, of Raleigh; and his son, Daniel Rountree and wife, Kelley, of Gatesville. He is also survived by his sisters, Rachel Rountree, Mary Brinkley, and Ruthellen VanBlon. “Pa” loved his grandchildren, Colbon, Ella, Cameron, Caleb, Sawyer, and a grandson due to be born in March. He also treasured his many relatives and friends.

   A graveside funeral service will be held Monday at 2:00 p.m. in the Morris-Speight Family Cemetery, near the home on Mill Pond Road, and will be officiated by his pastor, The Rev. Greg Jernigan, and by his cousin, The Rev. Stephen Rountree. Due to the restrictions and precautions associated with the Covid-19 Pandemic, no formal visitation is being held. However, friends are invited to visit with the family at their home, and at the gravesite immediately following the service on Monday. Masks and social distancing measures are encouraged.

   Memorial contributions may be made to Beulah Baptist Church, P.O. Box 101, Sunbury, NC 27979.

   Miller Funeral Home, 304 Main Street, Gatesville, is assisting the family with arrangements and online condolences may be made by visiting www.millerfhc.com.