Leland Franklin “Frank” Small passed away peacefully on April 28, 2026. He was born in Horry County, South Carolina on November 30, 1932 and lived a life defined by his commitment to his faith, family, friends and country.

When the family opened the Bible that Frank read every day they found a handwritten note with these statements: 1. Begin each day with God, 2. Love God and others in our contacts, 3. Put God in all we do, 4. Glorify God in all we do each day, and 5. Make God first in all that we have in resources. These reminders reflect the reason that Frank was a steady presence, and source of strength and an example of kindness to those around him.

Frank was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Jeans “Willis” Grainger Small, his parents and three siblings.

He is survived by his children, Katrina Small McBride and her husband Ken McBride and Leland “Curt” Small and his wife Sherri Small. He also leaves behind four cherished grandchildren: Kate Vahlberg and her husband Bryan Vahlberg, Kellie Smith and her husband Will Smith, Matthew Small and his wife Jennifer and Ryan Small. Frank was blessed with four great-grandchildren and one more on the way. He is also survived by his brother Marion D. Small.

When asked how he would like to be remembered Frank said, “I would like to be remembered as a man of integrity that loved the Lord and his family. He was a faithful patriot that loved his country and served it to the best of his ability for over 29 years. He had a wonderful married life and they made many friends that became like family. Life has been an exceptional experience.”

Frank served as a pilot in the U.S. Air Force and retired as a Colonel after a decorated and distinguished career. He served in the early days of the Vietnam War as an Air Commando with over 140 missions flown. Frank was a leader and flight instructor. During his career he held many command positions and retired as a base commander leading over 10,000 military and civilians.

While waiting for another medical scan with his daughter Katrina, Frank turned to her and said, “As I recall I volunteered for this assignment.”

Frank will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. He was a brave man who rose from humble beginnings in rural South Carolina to a position of honor and responsibility. Frank and his wife Willis lived in various places throughout the world and they made friends and created memories in each of them.

We love you, Frank, and are grateful to have been a part of your life.

He taught us well, in his living and in his dying. Peace be with you, Frank.

A celebration of Franks life will be held 10am Wednesday May 27th at First Baptist Church of Norman under the direction of Tribute Memorial Care.