Alfred Franklin Ready, born on May 29, 1940, known to most as Frank, died peacefully on February 23, 2024, in Jackson, Mississippi. He lived a full and richly abundant life and leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication, education, and a zest for life. To know Frank, was to know a dedicated husband and father, a focused educator, an astute financial fiduciary, and renaissance man.

Alfred Franklin Ready, born on May 29, 1940, known to most as Frank, died peacefully on February 23, 2024, in Jackson, Mississippi. He lived a full and richly abundant life and leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication, education, and a zest for life. To know Frank, was to know a dedicated husband and father, a focused educator, an astute financial fiduciary, and renaissance man.

Frank was a bright student from the start, demonstrating exceptional academic prowess. He graduated as high school valedictorian. Driven by a profound passion for learning, Frank pursued higher education at Northwestern State University, where he not only earned a Bachelor's degree but also achieved a Master's degree in Mathematics, further solidifying his commitment to his field of study.

In the 1960s, fresh out of college, Frank and his first wife made their way to New Mexico and Frank fully immersed himself as an educator. They welcomed their children Cky and Laronda and sadly lost their baby, Wade Lee.  During that time, he embraced several roles—serving as a math teacher and a basketball coach at both Estancia and Hondo High Schools. His commitment extended beyond the classroom; he joined the New Mexico State Department of Education, where he played a pivotal role in elevating math programs demonstrating his growing and long-standing interest towards a better education system and the greater good of educators themselves. This vision would catapult him into the highest level of impact for educators and state employees.

During the 1970s, Frank serendipitously met his future wife Rosina Espinoza, an elementary school teacher in Espanola, NM. Their professional collaboration blossomed into a personal connection, and they married in July 1974. Together, they welcomed Tamarah into their home and hearts, completing their family.

Frank's dedication to education continued into the 1980s and 1990s. He served as the director of the New Mexico Educational Retirement Board. In this role, he oversaw the tremendous responsibility of ensuring thousands of educators would be able to retire successfully. His financial mind guided him to make crucial investment decisions. After this success, in 1996, he became the director of the Public Employee Retirement System of Mississippi. He and Rosina relocated to the town of Brandon, Mississippi where they built a beautiful life into retirement.

Frank's dedication to the National Council on Teacher Retirement (NCTR) was exemplary, serving in leadership roles across both New Mexico and Mississippi. Rising to the presidency in the mid-1990s, he not only led with distinction but also earned numerous accolades for his tireless efforts. Alongside Rosina, he forged enduring friendships on the council, leaving an indelible mark on the education community. His legacy of advocacy and service reverberates through generations, a testament to his profound impact that continues to resonate today.

Frank's interests were as diverse as his accomplishments. He loved horses as an owner of many treasured thoroughbred racehorses, one special Arabian horse, and the thrill of horse race betting and poker games. His indulgences included golf, bacon, cigarettes, and all the things one shouldn't love. Baseball held a special place in his heart until the infamous strike of '94.

Travel was another passion. Frank and Rosina explored Europe, Mexico, and beyond. Their adventures were filled with laughter, shared memories, and the joy of discovery.

Frank is survived by his devoted wife of 50 years, Rosina Ready (nee Espinoza), and their daughter, Tamarah Lucero of Albuquerque, NM, his eldest children from his first marriage, Cky Ready of San Jose, CA, and Laronda Ayo of Madison, WI, plus two siblings, George Leon "Onner" Ready, sister in law Tina Ready of Sicily Island, LA, and Linda Diane Murray (Wayne) of Center Point, LA. Frank's love extended beyond his immediate family to include his three grandchildren John, Catherine and Torey, four great-grandchildren, numerous nieces, nephews, relatives, beloved neighbors, horse partners, and friends whose lives he enriched.

Frank was preceded in death by his father and mother, Wilton Franklin Ready and Flora Ella Ready of Sicily Island, LA. He was also preceded in death by his siblings: Melvin Lee ("Lucky") Ready, Wilford Ray Ready, Alvin Joe Ready, Charles Clifton ("Red") Ready, James Edward ("Stud") Ready, and Carl Edwin ("Brother") Ready, and son, Wade Lee Ready.

Frank Ready's journey was one of purpose, passion, and unwavering commitment. He had an unending love for his family and was a kind and caring uncle to many. May his legacy continue to inspire those who follow in his footsteps.

To a man that lived life fully and loved much, our dear Frank, you will always be in our hearts.

In addition to the funeral mass that was held at St. Paul Catholic Church in Flowood, MS in February, a Memorial Mass and Burial will be held on Monday, March 4, 2024, at Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church in Española, NM. A rosary will be held at 11:30am, followed by the mass and burial at 12:00pm, with a luncheon reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to the Alzheimer's Foundation.