It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Franklin David Haynes, who departed this world on July 26, 2026, at the age of 93. Born on February 19, 1933, in Walker, Missouri, Frank lived a life marked by faith, service, and love.
The son of Clyde David and Nellie Merle Haynes, Frank grew up in a family where values of integrity and kindness were instilled early. He was predeceased by his first wife, Dora Jane Foreman Haynes, with whom he shared a deep and abiding love for nearly 45 years of marriage before she passed in 2002. Frank later married Fern Louise Tucker in 2004 and she survives him at home.
Frank was a proud alumnus of Walker High School and answered the call of duty by serving in the United States Army from 1953-1955. His professional journey led him into the world of sales, and alongside his beloved wife Dora Jane, they owned and operated Haynes Variety in El Dorado Springs for many years. Their motto was “variety is the spice of life”. He mentored many employees over the years and made countless friends. In fact, Kathy Ehlers and her family bought the business after working for them, and they have proudly carried on the tradition of having “everything but the kitchen sink” at Ehler’s Variety.
A man of unwavering faith, Frank’s life mission was encapsulated in the simple yet profound acronym of J-O-Y. Jesus, Others, Yourself. His dedication to his faith was evident in his work with the Gideon’s Ministry, where he passionately distributed Bibles, visited those in jail, and spoke in many venues raising funds to purchase more Bibles. He served as a deacon and teacher in his church, at the nursing home, with the children’s programs, community outreach, and prepared countless funeral dinners. His commitment to his community extended to serving on the Southern Baptist Convention Board, the Baptist Hill Board, the El Dorado Springs school board, the Cedar County Memorial Hospital board, Lions Club, and other activities too numerous to mention. He led many people to the Lord, and that will always be his greatest accomplishment. It is difficult to know all the lives he impacted over the years.
Frank’s presence was marked by a friendly smile, a warm handshake, and his unyielding desire to share the gospel of Christ. He had an uncanny ability to connect with people, making each person feel valued and seen. His generosity knew no bounds, always ready to lend a helping hand or his last dollar to those in need. In his leisure time, Frank found joy in riding his Honda Gold Wing, reading his Bible and listening to gospel music, traveling, fishing, and tending his flower beds. His interactions with others truly energized him.
Frank is survived by his wife of twenty-two years, Fern Louise Haynes. He will be missed by his daughters, Catherine (Tom) Hissink and Sharon (Eddie) Hopkins. He also leaves behind
his four grandchildren, Emily (TJ) Hunt, Claire (Kyle) Hooe, Adrienne Elkins, and Mitchell (Liz) Elkins. He is also survived by three great grandchildren, Carter Hooe, Connor Hooe, and Tucker Hunt. He leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his first wife, Dora Jane Foreman Haynes, his parents, his two brothers, Kenneth (Mildred) Haynes, and Fred (Annie) Haynes. He also lost his brother-in- laws Russell Lee (Juanita) Foreman, Charles (Neoma)Foreman, and his sister-in-law, Alice (Joe Lee) Beaty. He leaves behind many friends, old and new, and it is hoped that they will carry on his legacy of love and kindness.
A service to honor and celebrate Frank’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, July 31, 2026, at the First Baptist Church in El Dorado Springs, Missouri with Pastor Kenny Batson officiating. The family will receive friends from 10-11:00 a.m. prior to the service. Military Funeral Honors will immediately follow the service at the church. A private committal for immediate family will be held later in Newton Burial Park in Nevada, MO.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Gideons International or First Baptist Church of El Dorado Springs. The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the staff at The Bungalows of Nevada, MO, and Heartland Hospice for their compassionate and exceptional care during Frank’s final years and days.
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