Wanda Gay Franks
1932 - 2026
Wanda Gay Franks (née Beaver), age 93, passed away peacefully into the arms of Jesus on January 25, 2026, in Georgetown, Texas. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, teacher, and faithful follower of Christ, Wanda lived a life marked by quiet strength, unwavering dedication, and deep love for her family and community.
Wanda was one of six children born to her parents, G.A. & Marie Beaver, on March 21, 1932. She grew up on a dairy farm in Arcadia, TX, and her early years were shaped by a strong sense of faith and perseverance—qualities that would define her throughout her life. She married Melvin Franks in 1952 and together they raised three children.
Wanda was valedictorian of her high school, and later pursued higher education with determination and earned a Master’s degree in Mathematics from Lamar University. Her passion for learning and teaching led her to a fulfilling career as a math educator at both the high school and college levels. Even into her seventies, she continued to tutor students in math—a testament to her enduring commitment to education and helping others succeed.
Wanda’s faith was the cornerstone of her life. As a devoted Christ follower from an early age, she remained active in her church community throughout her life. She especially loved singing in the choir—a joyful expression of her devotion that resonated with all who knew her. She also enjoyed worldwide travel, making wonderful memories with family and friends.
Wanda possessed a quiet determination that guided every aspect of her life. She was independent and courageous—a woman who served tirelessly for those she loved. Her family remembers her as someone who would do anything for them: a steady presence whose love was felt deeply across generations.
She was preceded in death by her husband Melvin in 1987, and siblings Gerald, Cecil, Kenneth, & Teressa. She is survived by her sister Maedell and brother-in-law Karlis; her sister-in-law Cathy; her children Lisa Curlee (Jim), Jim Franks (Jane), and Ray Franks (Ruth). Wanda was a proud grandmother to Dayna, Derek, Dustin, Ryan, Eric, Tricia, and Shelly. Her legacy continues through 12 great-grandchildren who brought immense joy into her later years.
A woman of grace and grit whose influence will be felt for generations to come, Wanda leaves behind a legacy rooted in faith, family, education, and service. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved her.
*A small graveside gathering will be held at Alvin Confederate Cemetery at a later date.
Wanda was one of six children born to her parents, G.A. & Marie Beaver, on March 21, 1932. She grew up on a dairy farm in Arcadia, TX, and her early years were shaped by a strong sense of faith and perseverance—qualities that would define her throughout her life. She married Melvin Franks in 1952 and together they raised three children.
Wanda was valedictorian of her high school, and later pursued higher education with determination and earned a Master’s degree in Mathematics from Lamar University. Her passion for learning and teaching led her to a fulfilling career as a math educator at both the high school and college levels. Even into her seventies, she continued to tutor students in math—a testament to her enduring commitment to education and helping others succeed.
Wanda’s faith was the cornerstone of her life. As a devoted Christ follower from an early age, she remained active in her church community throughout her life. She especially loved singing in the choir—a joyful expression of her devotion that resonated with all who knew her. She also enjoyed worldwide travel, making wonderful memories with family and friends.
Wanda possessed a quiet determination that guided every aspect of her life. She was independent and courageous—a woman who served tirelessly for those she loved. Her family remembers her as someone who would do anything for them: a steady presence whose love was felt deeply across generations.
She was preceded in death by her husband Melvin in 1987, and siblings Gerald, Cecil, Kenneth, & Teressa. She is survived by her sister Maedell and brother-in-law Karlis; her sister-in-law Cathy; her children Lisa Curlee (Jim), Jim Franks (Jane), and Ray Franks (Ruth). Wanda was a proud grandmother to Dayna, Derek, Dustin, Ryan, Eric, Tricia, and Shelly. Her legacy continues through 12 great-grandchildren who brought immense joy into her later years.
A woman of grace and grit whose influence will be felt for generations to come, Wanda leaves behind a legacy rooted in faith, family, education, and service. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved her.
*A small graveside gathering will be held at Alvin Confederate Cemetery at a later date.
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