Ronald Paul Frankowski

Ronald Paul Frankowski, Sr

Coach Ronald Paul Frankowski, Sr passed away Monday March 11th, 2024, in Kingsport. He was the son of Stella and Elvin Frankowski (deceased) of Toledo, Ohio where he learned to love all sports on the city’s public playgrounds. Ron was a 35-year veteran teacher/coach at Dobyns-Bennett where he coached both boys’ and girls’ tennis and basketball, winning multiple state championships with both tennis teams.

Ron had many interests. He liked photography (especially completely formed spider webs), working with kids with special education needs and collecting Polo shirts. He had a special love for backpacking, March Madness, the Georgetown Hoyas, the Special Olympics, and the local ballet. Ron served his country proudly in the US Army during the Vietnam War. Never was there a household chore he couldn’t ruin but put a piece of wood in his hands and he would turn it into a thing of beauty. Ron was a shoo-in for the local traveling volleyball team due to his height and played city league basketball until he could no longer find a league for his age. The Johnson City Parks & Rec tennis courts, where he taught thousands of kids over thirty summers, were his favorite home away from home.

He adored his wife, Brenna, of 54 years and took great joy in bringing her a Pal’s tea every single day.

He was supremely proud of his children, Ronnie Jr and Brooke. Ronnie and his dad shared an immense love for all things basketball. Watching Brooke play tennis and dance (especially as Clara in the Nutcracker ballet) filled Ron’s heart. He loved very much his daughter and son in laws, Nina and Ryan, and deeply cherished his five young grandchildren, Stella, Hattie, Sutton, Teo and Meja.

“Big Ron” led a great life filled with love. And will be remembered forever as the best dad and husband a family could ever ask for.

To honor Ron’s memory, we ask those interested to donate to his favorite organization, The Special Olympics, at the following address:

SOTN Area 32

C/O Kelly Middleton

In Memory of Ron Frankowski

954 Hickory Cove Road

Rogersville, TN 37857

Ron’s family will receive friends from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm on Friday, April 19, 2024, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, with the Liturgy of the Word immediately following at 1:00 pm. A committal service will be conducted at 2:00 pm at Mountain Home National Cemetery (Historic). Those attending are asked to meet at the cemetery gates by 1:50 pm to process to the committal shelter. 

Memories and condolences may be shared via www.morrisbaker.com

Morris-Baker Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 2001 E. Oakland Ave., Johnson City, is honored to serve the family of Coach Frankowski.