Franklin “Frank” Kenneth Certain Sr.

1958-2026

"Some men quietly become the foundation of their families—the steady hand, the wise voice, and the safe place everyone can count on. Though they leave this earth, their strength remains forever in the hearts they shaped."

Franklin Kenneth Certain Sr. age 68, of Ashland, KY, affectionately known as “Frank”, passed away peacefully on June 28, 2026.

Frank was born on a chilly Virginia day on January 16, 1958. He was the blessing to the late Billy and Marion L. Hare West. A proud graduate of Windsor High, he furthered his education at Ashland Community and Technical College where he studied Mechanical Engineering. It was a decision that led to a rewarding career as a mechanic at Boyd County Ford. Frank joined the rank of men that fought bravely for country in the United States Army during the Vietnam era in the early 70’s. It was a time of his life that he was very proud of.

Frank’s life was full of things that brought him joy. He loved Sports and freely gave his time to coaching the, Charles Rusell Indians Basketball Team, and Babe Ruth Baseball League, where he managed the White Sox and the Cardinals. He loved Radios and was involved in many organizations including Northeast Kentucky S.A.T.E.R.N, KI4WAZ, and many more. However, nothing brought him more joy than spending time with his family. Frank was a dedicated husband and devoted father. He made sure that his boys always knew right from wrong and had a good example to follow. Frank was the rock of his family, and they always knew that they could count on him. Frank would be there to listen, offer advice, and lend a helping hand.

As his family and friends mourn the loss of a good man, they will cherish the memories, love and wisdom he left behind. His legacy will live on in the stories they share and every time they speak his name.

Frank leaves behind his devoted wife of whom he spent over 50 years loving, Velma Ellen Davis Certain, his cherished children Florian W. Merget of Ashland, KY, Franklin K Certain Jr. of Ashland, KY, Timothy W. Certain of Lake Jackson, Texas, and Billy T.R. Certain ( Mckenzie Young) of Ashland, KY, six precious grandchildren, Ollie Merget, Malachi Merget and his wife Sidney, Lylah Certain, Easton Certain, Ava Certain, and Raelee Certain, and one brother Conrad Martin of Connecticut. Also surviving is a host of special extended family members and friends.

In addition to his late parents, Frank is preceded in death by one daughter Tabitha Certain, and his sister Bessie L. West.

A graveside service will be held at Kentucky Veterans Cemetery NE in Grayson, KY, on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, beginning at 11:00am, where military honors will be rendered by Army active duty as well as Post 93 of Kenova, Wv. Visitation for friends and family will be held the evening before on Monday, July 6, 2026, from 6pm to 8pm, at Kilgore & Collier  Funeral Home, located at 2702 Panola Street, Catlettsburg, KY.

Online condolences may be sent to the family from our website at kilgorecollierfuneralhome.com or on Facebook at Neal-Kilgore & Collier Funeral Home.

Neal-Kilgore & Collier Funeral Home is honored to be serving the family of Franklin Kenneth Certain.