FRANK DUDLEY HASTINGS passed away April 6, 2010 after a brief illness. He was born in New Orleans on February 2, 1921 to George Starr Hastings II and Elizabeth Louise Dudley, one of three brothers who remained very close throughout their lives. Frank was a life-long resident of Houston, graduating from San Jacinto High School in 1939. During World War II he served in the Army Air Corps on Makin Island and Iwo Jima.Frank was married for 40 years to Lucie Ridgeway, who pre-deceased him. His older brother George also pre-deceased him. Frank then married Jane Beall, and they were married for 18 years. She survives him, along with his three children, Mimi Shelton and husband, Arthur Shelton, Ridgeway Hastings and wife, Diane, and Matthew Hastings and wife, Angela, and twelve grandchildren. He is also survived by step-children Nancy Watson and husband, Paul, John Beall and Deborah Garner, and husband, Fred. Frank also leaves behind his life-long friend and brother, Tom Hastings and wife, Mary, and sister-in-law, Jeannette Hastings.Frank was a loving husband and father and always supported anyone who needed a friend. He freely gave his time and energy to help others, whether it was repairing a dishwasher or teaching a boy how to fish or fix brakes on a car. He adopted Bobby McFerrin's song "Don't worry. Be Happy" as his personal anthem and never put it aside. He was never happier than when organizing a cook out or taking a car load of kids to the beach. He was known for his strong devotion to family, and each of us is grateful for the gift of his unconditional love and the many happy memories he gave us. His character and values have touched us all, making us better people for having known him.A celebration of Frank's life will be held at the chapel at St. Martin's Episcopal Church on April 9, 2010 at 10:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, please donate to your favorite charity or do something special for someone and think of Frank. And remember- Don't worry. Be happy!
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