Janet Mae Franks

Janet Mae Franks, 94, of Bellingham, WA, passed away peacefully at Whatcom Hospice House on January 18, 2025. She was born in Seattle, WA on September 13, 1930, to Delbert and Mary (Hart) Wilson. Janet graduated from Foster High School in 1946 and later attended Western Washington University, where she met her future husband, William “Bill” Franks. They married in 1951 and settled in Bellingham, where they raised their family.

Janet was known for her caring nature and her devotion to both her family and her community. A longtime member of the First Christian Church in Bellingham, she served in many capacities, including singing in the choir, playing the organ, and volunteering her time wherever needed. Janet’s passion for helping others extended beyond her church. For decades, she volunteered at the Bellingham Visitor’s Bureau and the Assistance League of Bellingham.

A lover of animals, Janet fondly referred to them as "God’s creatures" and was a strong supporter of the Bellingham Humane Society. She enjoyed taking her great-granddaughter on trips to collect aluminum cans to exchange for donations to the shelter, demonstrating her selfless spirit and desire to improve the world around her.

Janet cherished her time spent with her children and grandchildren, especially watching her grandkids play baseball. She was a die-hard Mariners fan, always cheering for them no matter the score. Janet also had a love for adventure, whether it was a simple day trip, a ferry ride to Alaska, or a cruise. She found joy in exploring nature and experiencing the simple beauty in the world.

Janet was preceded in death by her husband, Bill; her brother, Charles Wilson; and her son-in-law, Frank Graham. She is survived by her four children, Laurie McConkey, Terry Graham, James W. Franks, and Michael Franks (Kellie); six grandchildren, Lindsey Graham Elenbaas (Ben), Christopher Graham, Garrett Graham, Kristopher Franks (Shannon), Ryan Franks (Jenn), and Jamie McColskey (Zack); five great-grandchildren, Alisa Graham, Ethan and Beaux Franks, and Michael and Tyler McColskey; two great-great-granddaughters, Lelia and Frankie Ethridge; and many other loving family members.

Memorial donations may be made to Whatcom Hospice Foundation. 

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 29th at Bayview Cemetery, 1420 Woburn St. Bellingham, WA.