Franklin (“Frank”) Everett Zurschmit, a dedicated and honorable man, passed away peacefully on November 24, 2025, in Virginia Beach, VA at the age of 88. Born in Cleveland, OH, Frank lived a life marked by service and devotion to family, community, and country.

Frank was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Kenneth and Sara Jane (Collins) Zurschmit, and his dear wife of 49 years, Edna Ann (King). He leaves a legacy of love and strength through his surviving children: Frank Jr. and wife Susan (Wormuth); Bob and wife Margaret (Ball); Tim; Sue Pearson and husband Don; and Amy Jackson and husband Danny. He was an immensely proud grandfather of John, Emily, Betsy, Abby, Wesley, Grace, Emma, Amberly, Sydney, Shelby, Georgia, and Charlotte. His great grandchildren, Jack, Alice, Isadora, Maggie, Maisie, Molly, Audrey, and Franklyn, were the apples of his eyes! 

Frank proudly served his country in the United States Navy for 31 years, retiring as a CWO4. After his distinguished military career, he continued his legacy of service as a NJROTC instructor training the future or our NAVY at First Colonial High School in Virginia Beach Public Schools. His dedication to educating young minds left a lasting impact on countless students, providing them with the knowledge, values, and leadership skills to succeed in life. Many of his students kept in touch over the years which made him so proud.

Frank was a cherished member of St. Nicholas and St. John the Apostle Catholic Churches, where he found spiritual solace and community. He sang in the choir, enjoyed serving pancakes on Sundays, and was always ready to lend a hand wherever needed. Frank also actively participated in organizations such as the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), the Fleet Reserve Association (FRA), and the Military Order of the World Wars (MOWW), and the National Model Railroad Association (NMRA). Being a docent on the USS Wisconsin kept him in touch with his naval heritage. He was an avid train collector who could often be found tinkering with his many H.O. sets. 

Frank’s life will be celebrated with a funeral mass at St. John the Apostle Catholic Church in Virginia Beach, Virginia on December 29, 2025 at 1pm. In lieu of flowers, donations in Frank’s memory may be made to the Princess Anne Volunteer Rescue Squad at https://pachvrs.org/donate/ . This organization helped him countless times and services our community solely through donations. 

Franklin Everett Zurschmit will forever be remembered for his deep commitment to serving others, leaving an indelible mark on his family, community, and all who were fortunate to know and love him. May his soul rest in eternal peace.