A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, June 7, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. at Mother Tucker’s Pour House, 1021 2nd Ave N, Unit 1, North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina 29582.
Frankie was born to the late Franklin Marlowe and Mary Magdalene Marlowe. She was also preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Sonya Bass; and her sisters, Betty Mathisen (Tug), Linda Davis, and Patsy Ellington (Eric).
She leaves behind her devoted husband, Otis “Buddy” Whaley of Little River; her daughters, Penny Brown and Brandy Brown, both of Marion; her brother, Buddy Brown (Patty Sue) of Summerville; her sisters, Kathy Williams (John) of Florence and Raydene Cottingham (Angel) of Marion; and a host of loving family members and friends.
Frankie was a proud grandmother to Chelsey Frank (Ronnie) of Easley, Dylan Brown (Katie) of Conway, Austin Johnson (Kayla) of Marion, and Dawson Brown (Kaleigh) of Marion. She was also blessed with three cherished great-grandchildren, Lakelyn Johnson, Beckett Frank, and Alaina Brown. In addition, she leaves behind many nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly.
For more than 35 years, Frankie dedicated her career to cosmetology. She was the owner and operator of A Cut Above Salon in Marion, South Carolina, where she built lasting friendships and served her community with talent, kindness, and a welcoming spirit.
Frankie loved life and embraced every opportunity to enjoy it. She had a passion for shagging, dancing, music, trips to the beach, family vacations, and cruises. Most of all, she treasured spending time with her family and friends. She was an active member of the O.D. Shag and Social Club and found great joy on the dance floor and among her many dear friends.
Known affectionately as “Mema,” Frankie shared her love generously with everyone she met. She never met a stranger and had a unique gift for making others feel welcome and valued. Her warmth, laughter, and compassionate heart touched countless lives, and her memory will be treasured by all who knew and loved her.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Frankie’s honor to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Lee Funeral Home and Crematory of Little River is serving the family.

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