JOANNA - Frankie Allen Motes, age 60, of Joanna, SC, passed away January 15, 2026 at his home.
He was born September 16,1965 at Bailey Hospital in Clinton, SC to parents, Carl D. Motes and Nora Bell Etters Nelson. He worked in textiles and as a warehouse worker until he became disabled in 1998.
Frankie donated his time at the Food Bank at Lydia Mill Church of God. When it closed, he took over the Food Bank on Highway 76 beside Trotters Restaurant, where his girlfriend worked alongside him assisting in whatever way she could. Frankie was an honest and hardworking man who enjoyed the simple things in life. He had a deep love for family, love of people, and his love of chickens. He enjoyed planting gardens and canning food, which he shared with others.
Frankie is survived by his girlfriend of 12 years, Debbie Wyatt, his sisters, Kathy Griffith (Clarence) and Roxanne Gresham; as well as eight nieces and four nephews. Among them, nieces Ashley and Linda and nephew Allen held a special place in his heart, as if they were his own children. A very special niece, Adaleya, could steal anyone’s heart. Very close friends Johnny Carr and Mike Gossett provided support to Frankie before and throughout his illness.
In addition to his parents, Frankie was preceded in death by his sister, Darlene Overstreet and his brother, Clifton Motes.
Funeral Services were held Friday, January 23, 2026 at 1:00 PM at the Gray Funeral Home Chapel of Clinton with Mr. Allen Carr officiating.
Visitation was held Thursday, January 22, 2026 from 6:00 – 8:00 PM at the funeral home.
Condolences may be expressed to the family online by visiting www.grayfuneralhome.com.
Gray Funeral Home of Clinton is assisting the Motes family with services.
