Frank Bugh, Financial Advisor: “Take Good Care of My Lady”

By FRANK BUGH, Financial Advisor/Branch Manager

Photos by Brooke Mathis: Beautiful Evolutions Photography

“My clients come from all walks of life: business owners, professionals, retirees, young families, and yes — many widows. My passion is helping people make wise financial decisions, avoid costly mistakes, and find clarity in uncertain times.”

Those were the last words spoken to me by a client just before he passed away, 33 years ago. Everyone knew him as Big Jim — a larger-than-life man whose final charge wasn’t just meant for me, but echoed through his entire family. His kids and grandkids all know the story. And I’ve never forgotten it either.

His lady was 59 at the time. Most people are surprised to learn that’s actually the average age of widowhood in the United States. She went on to live 32 more years, passing at the age of 91. She was an incredible, Godly woman who lifted the spirits of everyone she came near. Her grace, strength, and faith left a mark on everyone who knew her — including me.

Shortly before she passed, I went to visit her. As we sat talking, she reached out, took my hand, and said:

“I want you to know… that I know… you kept your promise.”

And at her funeral, every one of her friends I met said the same thing:
“I know about you. You kept your promise.”

After the service, her three sons came to me and said:

“We’re going to leave the investments with you — because we saw, through the years, how much and how well you cared for Mom.”

That moment reminded me that this work is not just about investments — it’s about trust, love, and legacy.

But that story is just one chapter in a much longer journey.

But, after accepting the charge to “take good care of my lady,” I realized I could serve my clients — especially widows and families in transition — more completely if I had greater flexibility and independence.

So, in 1995, I bought out the Waco branch of Raymond James Financial and became an Independent Financial Advisor. I built my business — and raised my five kids — right there in Waco.

Then in 2016, after finally becoming empty nesters, my wife and I moved from Waco to Crowley to be closer to our kids and grandkids. (There are thirteen of them, by the way — and yes, Christmas is fun.)

I’ve been a Financial Advisor for over 35 years, helping clients navigate everything from bull markets to recessions to personal loss. I don’t just talk theory — I’ve lived through it.

In fact, I was raised in it.

My grandfather — the original Frank Bugh, whom I’m proud to be named after — taught my father how to invest in the early 1900s. My dad bought his first stock in 1924. I grew up in a household where investing wasn’t just dinner-table talk — it was a way of life.

That legacy gave me a long view of the markets. I’ve seen what works, what doesn’t, and how to guide people through the trying times that inevitably come.

My clients come from all walks of life: business owners, professionals, retirees, young families, and yes — many widows. My passion is helping people make wise financial decisions, avoid costly mistakes, and find clarity in uncertain times.

Some days, I call myself a “Life Transition Specialist.” Because, while I manage investments, what I really do is help people navigate life’s big turning points. Whether you’ve just had your first child and want to start a college fund, are transitioning into retirement, going through a divorce, facing widowhood, or making the move into a retirement center — I’m here to walk with you through it all. My job is to simplify the complex, bring clarity where there’s confusion, and help you make smart decisions during some of life’s most emotional moments.

As an Independent Financial Advisor, I’m not tied to one company or product line. I’m fully licensed and have access to virtually every investment type available. That independence allows me to tailor strategies based on each person’s unique goals — not on quotas or corporate agendas.

Burleson isn’t just where I work — it’s home. When I’m not with clients, I stay active in the community — supporting local businesses, mentoring others, and filming the occasional fun video with my yellow lab, Bentley, and my vintage MGTD, Doris.

If you’re looking for someone who’s seen it all, who still hears the words of a promise kept, and who treats every client relationship like it truly matters — I’d be honored to be part of your financial journey.

Because this work isn’t just about growing wealth. It’s about protecting legacies, honoring families, and giving people confidence for whatever comes next.