James R. Frantz

1942-2025

James Reynolds Frantz, 82, of Millersville, Maryland, passed away on Oct. 9, 2025, following a brief illness. Jim was born on Dec. 26, 1942, in Warren, Pa., the eldest son of James H. Frantz and Kathryn (Reynolds) Frantz-Israel. He graduated from Warren Area High School and earned his bachelor’s degree from Thiel College in 1964. Following graduation, Jim entered Officer Training School and was commissioned in the United States Air Force. He served honorably for 25 years, retiring with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. After his military career, he accepted a position with the Defense Intelligence Agency, where he served for an additional 20 years.

To those who knew him, it was clear that Jim lived a life of service. He was always on the go and always helping others. He cared deeply for everyoneäespecially his beloved wife, Deborah, and their cherished (and delightfully spoiled) pups, LylaRose and Jolie Chien. Jim expressed his love through countless acts of kindness and generosity.

He loved his neighborhood and took pride in decorating the community bulletin board at the entrance. Each Christmas, he joyfully donned a Santa suit and rode through the neighborhood parade, handing out candy canes to children and neighbors alike. He also served as treasurer on the Tanager Forest Association Board. An avid outdoorsman, Jim enjoyed fishing, hunting, and skiing. Above all, he was known for his willingness to lend a helping hand whenever needed.

Jim is survived by his devoted wife of 43 years, Deborah L. Frantz; step-sons Robert Greguras of Brentwood, California, and Adrian Greguras of Newbern, Tennessee; his brother, John R. (Susan) Frantz of Pittsburgh, PA; his step-brother, Dr. J. Robert Israel of Fairview, North Carolina; cousin David G. (Claudia) Frantz of Williamsburg, VA; and his niece, Kathryn (Cody) Buzard of Twinsburg, Ohio.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Nov. 22, 2025, at Unity by the Bay (4 Pointless Forest Trail, Annapolis, MD), from 1 to 5 p.m.

Donations in Jim’s memory may be made to the Alzheimer’sAssociation using the link, https://events.alz.org/s/2447/2881, the Warren County Historical Society, Warren, PA 16365, or Thiel College, 75 College Ave, Greenville, PA 16125.