'Southern Sportsman' Franc White passes

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'Southern Sportsman' Franc White passes

Jun 7, 2012

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Raleigh, N.C. — “Do yourself a favor, take a kid fishing.”

The words were uttered so routinely by Franc White. He closed his weekly show, “The Southern Sportsman,” with them 1,087 times over 24 years. They carried such little burden but such profound fervor.

White passed away Thursday, marking the end of an 86-year life that embodied a free-spirited way of being combined with a love of the outdoors.

White was born in Goodwater, Alabama – the town name offering a literal foreshadowing to his avenue of success.

White was an avid fisherman and hunter. He was a cook and a restaurateur. White was an author, a pilot and a World War II correspondent. He was also funny and opinionated - quick to speak his mind on environmental issues.

“The Southern Sportsman” took viewers on exotic trips finding the best fishing around from 1972-96. The show included cooking segments with White in the kitchen and first-person commentary on issues, feelings and friendships. At its height, White’s show was broadcast on 34 stations in 17 states, including WRAL-TV, which produced the show.

In 2007, White told WRAL that he did not miss having to get up early to film the show, but he missed the travels. So much so, he retired to New Zealand.

White is survived by his “special friend” Susan and his two daughters, Libby and Shaun.

Web Editor: Aaron Schoonmaker

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RE: 'Southern Sportsman' Franc White passes

I knew Frank, was in school with one of his daughters in Charlotte in the 50s when he was just getting into his career. a very nice man. RIP Franc

RE: 'Southern Sportsman' Franc White passes

RIP Franc....BB

RE: 'Southern Sportsman' Franc White passes

I loved that show the Southern Sportsman Franc White was a true Southern Gentleman.RIP Franc.

RE: 'Southern Sportsman' Franc White passes

I once met Franc and Fracas at the State Fair. It's a memory that I will never forget.

RE: 'Southern Sportsman' Franc White passes

Tony16-took my 25 year old daughter fishing Wednesday evening in a small pond near Clayton. And-as usual, she outfished me-well-she had a big bream and a bass, and I had 1 channel cat. Memories!!

Franc always made me think about the bigger picture. I remember when he got his new catamaran boat after Honda brought out their new 30 HP & 45HP 4 stroke outboards. My initial thoughts were about the boat being underpowered. I finally realized that the 4 stroke was about the environment-not power and speed.

Franc had no issues with calling out irresponsible people including politicians & polluters. He was to the point, factual, yet a true gentleman. I saw his cookbook the other day in an old book store.

I miss the Southern Sportsman-help us out WRAL-sure is better than some of the re-runs you do now on Saturdays!! Please.

RIP Franc and Fracas. Take a kid fishing in heaven-where every fish is a lunker!!

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