John Franklin Upchurch ('56)

John Franklin Upchurch

John Franklin Upchurch of Lake Wales died Wednesday, June 18, 2008, at Lake Wales Medical Center. He was 70.

Born Dec. 3, 1937, in Lake Wales, he was a lifelong resident. He was a retired master mechanic for IMC for 30 years, of the Baptist faith, and served in the National Guard. He loved baseball, fishing, and coached little league for many years with his wife.

Mr. Upchurch was preceded in death by his wife, Carol Upchurch; a son, N.O. Upchurch; and three sisters, Doris Johans, Alice Segloski and Martha Anderson.

Survivors include a daughter, Ashley Upchurch of Lake Wales; five sons, Richie Upchurch, Buddy Upchurch, Joey Upchurch, N.O. Upchurch Jr., and Jonathan Upchurch, all of Lake Wales; a sister, Betty Browning of Waterloo, N.Y.; ten grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Visitation was held from 2 p.m. until service time at 3 p.m., Tuesday, June 24, at the Marion Nelson Funeral Home in Lake Wales with Rev. Walter Nelson officiating. Interment followed at the Lake Wales Cemetery.

Marion Nelson Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.