J. Frank Wilson Gravesite
The East Texas Weekend Preview — On the Southern outskirts of Lufkin, there is a quiet memorial park that hosts the resting place of a legendary American vocalist.
John Frank Wilson, a Lufkin-native, rose to major stardom in 1964 as he and his band, the Cavaliers, released their cover of “Last Kiss.”
The Wayne Cochran original piece got new life with Wilson’s rendition. The deep sorrowful, relatable melody captivated audience across the nation. So much so that it rose to the top of the American Pop Charts that same year.
Wilson and the group played shows and wrote records throughout the 60’s and 70’s.
As time went on, Wilson’s health would gradually decline, eventually leading to his death in 1991.
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Today, you can visit his charming headstone which reads, “Beloved son & brother. Last Kiss will be remembered long even though you’re afar.” Ton top of the grave lies a tiny metal flap, which when lifted reveals Wilson’s unforgettable, handsome portrait.
J. Frank Wilson’s Gravesite can be found near the center building of the Garden of Memories Memorial Park.
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