Opal Franks

Opal Franks, 82, of Diboll, was born February 10, 1926, in San Augustine County, Texas, the daughter of the late Elma L. (Eberlan) and Grady Louis Elliott. She passed away Tuesday, October 21, 2008, following an extended illness. Mrs. Franks was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. Her family, children and grandchildren were the light of her life. She graduated from Stephen F. Austin State University, with a Masters of Education Degree, as well as a Bachelor of Education Degree. She taught in the Diboll Independent School District for more than 31 years. Mrs. Franks was a member of First United Methodist Church of Diboll. Survivors include her son and daughter-in-law, Eck and Maureen Franks of Lufkin; daughter and son-in-law, Suzanne and Charles Warlick of Nacogdoches; grandchildren, Brady Franks, Brandon Franks, both of Lufkin, Catherine Warlick and Caroline Warlick, both of Austin; brother, LaVelle Elliott of San Augustine; sisters, Pat Nicholson of Lufkin and Linda Russell of San Augustine; longtime friend, Bettye Greer; and a number of nieces, nephews and other family members. Mrs. Franks was preceded in death by her husband of 55 years, Bennis E. Franks. Pallbearers will be Greg Elliott, Bob Ramsey, Kevin Hurley, Brent Nicholson, Alan Russell, Thomas Daniel Franks and Eric Russell. Expressions of sympathy may be made in Mrs. Franks memory to First United Methodist Church of Diboll, P.O. Box 412, Diboll, Texas 75941. Services for Mrs. Franks will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, October 23, 2008, in the Elwyn M. Gipson Memorial Chapel in the Garden of Memories Memorial Park, with Reverend Becky Love officiating. Interment will follow in the Garden of Memories Memorial Park. Friends are invited to visit with the family from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday evening at Gipson Funeral Home. Gipson Funeral Home; Joni Johnson, director.