This Bluefield native grew up surrounded by Appalachian music and learned fiddle and banjo from his family and neighbors. After serving in the army in Europe, he studied traditional music in Scotland, England, and Ireland before returning home to share what he'd learned. Over his career, he appeared on 14 recordings.

In 1966, Frank met Jane Cox at the Mountain State Art & Craft Fair. She was an important leader in reviving Appalachian crafts and culture. They married in 1969 and worked together to promote traditional music, crafts, dance, and storytelling across the United States and Europe. Both received the Vandalia Award, West Virginia’s highest folklife honor.