Mr. Gerald Franklin Anderson, 85, of Mocksville, died on Friday, June 9, 2017, at Forsyth Medical Center following a period of declining health.

He was born Feb. 19, 1932, the son of the late Ben Franklin Anderson and Eula Cook Anderson. He was also preceded in death by a daughter, Judy Ramey; a granddaughter, Tori Rose Souffrant; a sister, Loise Sharpe; and 3 brothers, Roy, Brian and James Anderson.

Survivors: his wife of 56½ years, Mildred Gardner Anderson; 2 daughters, Sheila Souffrant (Dean) of Charlotte and Theresa Floyd (Tim) of Bermuda Run; an “adopted” daughter, Patty Wood (Mackey) of Manning, S.C.; a step-son, Eddie Ray Miller (Lorene) of Marion; 6 grandchildren: Ashley and Corey Souffrant, Colin and Jessica Floyd, Scottie Miller and Lance Ramey; great-grandchildren, Melody Miller and Alex Ramey; plus a number of nieces and nephews.

He spent most of his life as a self-employed truck driver. He enjoyed cutting wood, farming and fishing. His real delight was in his grandchildren. He was a noble and simple man, respected by all who knew him.

The body lay in state from 4-7 p.m. Sunday at Davie Funeral Chapel. A graveside celebration of life service was conducted at 10 a.m. Monday, June 12 at Blaise Baptist Church Cemetery officiated by Pastor Bill Phillips and assisted by the Rev. Glenn Sellers and sons-in-law Dean Souffrant and Tim Floyd. The family received friends after the service.

Memorials: Blaise Baptist Building Fund, 134 Blaise Church Rd., Mocksville.

Condolences: www.daviefuneralservice.com.