On Tuesday January 28, 2020 Francis “Frank” Haywood Nowland, Jr. went to be with the Lord at the age of 86.

Born June 21, 1933 to Francis Haywood Nowland, Sr. and Mary Lucille Theimer Nowland in Alexandria, Virginia. He received his degree from Shepherd University in West Virginia, where here he studied political science and played football on the only undefeated football team in the history of Shepherd University. He loved talking about all of his wonderful experiences there to the very end.

Frank met Doris (Dottie) Foster on a blind date and it was love at first sight. Frank and Dottie were
married for 60 years and together they had six children. John, Frank, Kala, Kathleen, Caryn and Jimmy. Frank was a successful regional manager for Moore Business Forms. As he was promoted he and Dottie had the opportunity to move their family and Dottie’s mother (Nan) from D.C. to Maryland, Pittsburgh, Long Island and finally Virginia Beach where he started his own business.

After college he joined the army and was sent to Korea where he discovered his passion for Judo. He was raised to the rank of black belt and instructed many students including his children. As a devout Roman Catholic, he was well known at Ascension Church for his contributions including directing parishioners to act out the gospel stories. Frank and Dottie opened their home to countless children in need as part of their service and love for others.

Frank is preceded in death by his parents and daughter, Kathleen Nowland.

Left to cherish his memory is his loving wife Dottie; children, John , Frank , Caryn , Jimmy Nowland and Kala DiCiero; grandchildren, Ashlyn DiCiero Watson (Adam) Jack DiCiero, Chandler, Joey , Cara , Eli and, Niamh Nowland, great grandson Noah Nowland and so many more extended family members and friends.

A celebration of life will be held at Altmeyer Funeral Home Southside Chapel (5033 Rouse Drive, VA Beach) on February 8. Service will start a 1:00 pm and will follow with food and fellowship.