Abram Frink Jr.

On December 29, 2024, the Angel of Mercy lovingly guided our beloved father, grandfather, uncle, community leader, teacher, neighbor, and friend to his eternal home. With a gentle whisper, “Well done, my good and faithful servant, you’ve earned your eternal rest,” Abram received his Heavenly wings, leaving a legacy of love, service, and inspiration.

Born to the late Abram and Dollie Frink on November 18, 1927, in Shallotte, North Carolina, Abram was the cherished only son and the middle child in their family. Growing up as the son of sharecroppers, he developed a steadfast work ethic, spending his early years helping harvest crops and working alongside his cousin Bill on their grandfather Alexander’s farm. Whether clearing fields with a mule or helping in the country store, Abram’s industrious spirit and sense of community took root early in life.

Faith was the cornerstone of his upbringing. Abram accepted Christ at a young age and regularly attended Sunday School at Pleasant Hill Missionary Church, where his mother served as a Sunday School teacher and usher. Church attendance was non-negotiable, a pillar of Black family life at the time, instilling values that would guide him throughout his life.

Education was a challenge Abram tackled with determination. Walking three to four miles daily to a one-room schoolhouse, he overcame barriers that limited Black children’s education to the sixth grade. His ambition drove him to move to Southport, North Carolina, where he lived with his cousin Eva Lee, a teacher who fostered a culture of learning and opened her home to those seeking a brighter future. Abram worked tirelessly to support himself, doing odd jobs like helping his cousin Bud stoke wood-burning stoves at a local high school, even enduring teasing from peers as he hung laundry on the clothesline.

His perseverance paid off: Abram graduated high school in 1948 and entered North Carolina A&T State University, where he met the love of his life, Evelyn Odell Wallace. Together, they graduated in 1952, brimming with “Aggie Pride,” ready to build a future together.

The couple married on November 8, 1952, and began their life in Washington, D.C., where they worked for the federal government. Abram later served his country in the U.S. Army from 1954 to 1956, including a tour in Germany. Upon his honorable discharge, he returned to Williamsburg, Virginia, where his life of service and leadership blossomed.

A devoted member of Mt. Gilead Baptist Church for nearly seventy years, Abram’s contributions were boundless. From Sunday School Superintendent to Trustee Board Chairman, he often joked that he did everything in the church except preach. His faith extended beyond the church walls, inspiring countless community projects and initiatives.

Abram’s hands built more than homes; they built hope. As a master brick mason, he helped construct homes and buildings throughout Williamsburg, including many on Magruder Avenue, where he built his own family’s home. As a vocational teacher, he instilled not only the art of brick masonry but also discipline and resilience in his students, leaving a legacy etched in the walls of York County and beyond.

His civic contributions were equally impactful. Serving fourteen years on the James City County Board of Supervisors—four as Chairman—Abram was the first Black elected official in Virginia to lead a governing body. He played a pivotal role in bringing economic opportunities to the area, including Ball Metal Container Plant, Anheuser-Busch Brewery, and Busch Gardens.

Even in retirement, Abram continued to build—both structures and relationships. He and his son collaborated on Frink Construction projects in communities like Kingsmill and Ford’s Colony. His love for gardening and fishing provided him joy and nourishment, often shared generously with friends and neighbors.

In November 2013, the James City Board of Supervisors honored his legacy by naming the Abram Frink Jr. Community Center—a place where future generations will continue to learn, grow, and thrive.

Abram’s life was a testament to hard work, faith, and service. He used his time on Earth to transform the lives of those he touched and the communities he called home. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, as we celebrate a life beautifully and purposefully lived.

Abram was preceded in death by his beloved wife of over sixty years, Evelyn Odell; sisters, Corine Price (Wilbur) and Ida Mae King (James); granddaughter Jennifer Gause (Jeffrey); son-in-law James Alton Pigott; and niece Carol Ann King.

He leaves behind a loving family, his five children, Evelyn Pigott, Justine Robinson (Sherard), Felecia Frink, Abram Frink (Dixie), and Robert Frink; eleven grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; five great-great-grandchildren; four great-great-great-grandchildren; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, former students, and friends.

A service to celebrate his life will be held at noon on Saturday, January 4, 2025, at the Abram Frink Jr Community Center.  Interment to follow in Mt. Gilead Baptist Church Cemetery.  Mr. Frink may be viewed on Friday from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Mt. Gilead Baptist Church.

Professional services have been entrusted to the staff of Whiting's Funeral Home, 7005 Pocahontas Trail, Williamsburg, Virginia 23185. 757-229-3011 whitingsfuneralhome.com

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