Last updated on: February 14, 2025
Frank Allen Grammer Jr. was the father of celebrated actor Kelsey Grammer. While not as widely recognized, Frank led an inspiring life that played an instrumental role in Kelsey’s childhood and future. This article will delve deeper into who Frank Allen Grammer Jr. was and what made his journey worthwhile.
Quick Facts About Frank Allen Grammer Jr
| Full Name | Frank Allen Grammer Jr. |
| Birthdate | 1929 |
| Occupation | Musician, Business Owner, Founder of Virgin Islands View |
| Husband/Wife | Wife: Sally Grammer |
| Died | 1968 |
| Age at Death | 39 years old |
| Parents | Father: Frank A. Grammer Sr., Mother: Edna Grammer |
| Grandchildren | Spencer Grammer, Greer Grammer, Mason Olivia Grammer, Jude Gordon Grammer |
| Children | Karen Grammer, Kelsey Grammer, William Grammer, Stephen Grammer, John Grammer |
| Net Worth | $5 million |
| Cause of Death | Murdered, shot after his car was set on fire |
| Location of Death | St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands |
Early Life
Frank Allen Grammer Jr. was born in Ocean Grove, New Jersey in 1929 to Frank A. Grammer Sr. and Edna Grammer; Edna passed away suddenly when Frank Jr. was only 19 years old; following this tragic loss his father remarried while Frank Jr. struggled to come to terms with the grief caused by losing both parents. Frank Jr. eventually had to cope with both losses while facing them head on during his teen years.
Life in the Virgin Islands
Frank made an extraordinary move in 1954: He left his native United States behind and relocated to St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands, beginning a new life there. There, he opened a music store as well as publishing Virgin Islands View newspaper – quickly becoming well-known to both residents and authorities for speaking out against anything that was contrary to his opinions and writing style. Frank soon earned himself an international reputation as a fierce voice within local political issues as a result of this strong voice of opinion in St. Thomas.
Frank also operated Greer’s Place coffee shop, a popular gathering spot among both locals and visitors alike. Greer’s gave Frank an opportunity to meet many people while building community ties in the Virgin Islands; ultimately leaving an indelible mark upon them all.
The Tragic Death of Frank Allen Grammer Jr.
Frank Allen Grammer Jr. was tragically cut short. On April 24th 1968 – just 39 years old at the time – his life was taken due to racial tension in America following Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination and during this violent time Frank’s life was lost in this unrest.
Frank’s car was set afire. Upon approaching those responsible, he was shot twice; their killer would later be cleared due to insanity charges; it was an extremely trying time for Frank and his family; according to his wife, she reported hearing threats that Frank might be run over with his car after shooting him.
Frank’s killer was an anti-white taxi driver and it appears his crime had something to do with racial violence at that time. After Frank’s murder, the person responsible remained hospitalized in a psychiatric ward for many years afterward.
Kelsey Grammer was just 13 when his father passed away unexpectedly. This tragic event profoundly impacted him and became an essential element in shaping both his professional path as well as personal outlook on life.
Frank Allen Grammer Jr. as a Father
Frank Allen Grammer Jr. was an incredible father. A talented musician and businessman by day, he also found time for his family. Kelsey Grammer often speaks fondly of his memories with Frank; even though Kelsey was still young when Frank died. Kelsey remembers what lessons and values Frank passed down through them both.
Frank’s death left a gaping hole in Kelsey’s life. Although grieving for his loss was difficult, it helped shape who Kelsey is today and helped shape him into who he is today. Kelsey has often spoken about what loss meant to him personally as well as its lasting repercussions in terms of personal development.
READ ALSO: Kelsey Grammer Net worth, Age, Wife, Family, Facts & More
Frank’s Legacy
Frank Allen Grammer Jr. was not a household name, yet his legacy lives on today. From his involvement in his community to strong opinions he held as well as being a father he made an indelible mark upon Kelsey Grammer’s story.
Kelsey often finds comfort in recalling his father, Frank’s life and death have profoundly shaped his own path. Though Frank died much too young, his memory continues to have an effectful effect on Kelsey and his work. Frank faced many hardships and made significant contributions towards nurturing his family – an influence which continues to impact Kelsey today.
