James Frank Elkins, born June 5, 1953, in Macon, Georgia, passed away on February 5, 2026. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and a man whose life was defined by service to others often carried out quietly and without seeking attention.

Frank was the beloved spouse of Carlene McDuffie Elkins and the son of Mercer Neal Elkins and Alma Blondale Joiner. Though not always one to wear his heart on his sleeve, Frank possessed a deep and steady compassion that revealed itself through action rather than words.

Remarkably, Frank began his career as a firefighter at the age of 50 serving Nassau County Fire Rescue, Local 3101, before retiring with pride. His decision to step into service later in life was deeply personal. After experiencing the pain of having a son who was severely burned as a child, Frank felt called to do more to help other families facing unimaginable hardship. His work in the fire service became another way he could serve, protect, and support others in his community from this type of tragedy.

Frank was also a lifelong Shriner deeply committed to helping children in need and served as the Public Relations Director for the Morocco Shrine. In recognition of his tireless dedication, he was just recently honored as Shriner of the Year for 2025 an award that reflected years of selfless service and quiet leadership. His involvement with the Shriners allowed him to further his mission of helping burn victims and their families extending his compassion well beyond his own experience.

He is survived by his children: Zach Elkins (Ashley), Beth Johnson, Rachel Jacobs, Amanda Williams (Nicole), and James Frank Elkins Jr., who preceded him in death.
He is also survived by his grandchildren: Christian Elkins (Morgan), Kate Elkins, Haley Elkins, Jacob Elkins, Blake Nash, Cody Johnson, Alyssa Paraday, Dylan Paraday, Madison Paraday, Jeremiah Boyd, Aaron Johnson, and Greyson Williams.
His legacy continues through his great-grandchildren: Amelia Elkins, Alexandra Elkins, Nicholas Nash, Rosalyn Dotson, Adelynn Johnson, Novalynn Wilford, Cody Johnson Jr., Lyra Wilford, Summit Johnson, and Ryleigh Wilford.

Frank lived his life with quiet strength and unwavering dedication to his family and community. While he may not have always spoken his feelings aloud his love was evident in the way he showed up, served others, and carried responsibility with honor. His impact will be felt for generations not through his words but through the lives he touched with his dedication.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by his family, his community, and by all those who felt his impact through the way he served others.
There will be a Celebration of Life for those who wish to attend on March 21st at 11:30 a.m., held at 85194 Airplane Lane, Yulee, FL 32034.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Frank’s memory to the Shriners Burn Unit Children’s Office, c/o Office of Philanthropy, 2900 N. Rocky Point Drive, Tampa, FL 33607.