MMCSS (Ret) Franks, David Allan
6 November 1953 – 21 August 2023
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of MMCSS (Ret) David Allan Franks, a devoted husband, loving father, and great friend. David lost his battle with cancer while surrounded by loved ones. David is preceded in death by his mother, Edythe Hollis Franks Abney Proze, father, Herbert Valdon Franks, stepfather, Charles Proze, and brother, James Abney. He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Mary Arcement Franks, daughters Carolyn World Turner (Jason), Charlotte Domingue (Pierre), and adopted daughter Shelena Gervais (Sean). Grandchildren Tyler Reynolds (Nicole), Renee’ Reynolds (Au’tumn), Hannah Gervais Speir (Tyler), Micah Gervais (Kayla), Charles World Turner and Grayson World Turner, and great-granddaughters Alice, Emmy, and Hazel; and by his two sisters Pamela Franks Rider (Paul Rider) and Karon Franks; and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.
David was larger than life and always a joy to be around. He was a proud US Naval Submariner, having served from 1972-1992, where he traveled the Pacific fleet visiting numerous locations. After Naval retirement and moving to Bush, LA, David went on to work for Hibernia/Capital One bank and later CBRE as a building maintenance technician. David joined the Bush volunteer fire department, where he was a member from 1995-2013. As a former riding lieutenant for the Krewe of Aquila, he enjoyed the carnival season and would often be seen pulling floats through many different Mardi Gras Parades. Having served on submarines for 20 years, service to his country was a big part of his life, and he continued this service to country by volunteering with the Louisiana Patriot Guard, where he would honor fellow veterans. His free time was spent traveling, having visited most of the United States at one point or another to see family and friends. One always ready for a good time, David often enjoyed a good glass of whiskey or wine with friends and family.
David’s final resting place will be somewhere in the Atlantic Ocean, thus fulfilling his wish to finally make it to the Atlantic Fleet. His ashes are to be spread from a Naval vessel as she goes out on Patrol. A small service will be held at the Southeast Louisiana Veterans Cemetery in Slidell, La, at a later date (preferably once it has cooled off).
In lieu of flowers the family request donations be made to Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center https://fundraise.givesmart.com or to the Louisiana Patriot Guard Riders P.O. Box 87408 Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70879
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
2 Entries
Gary Fickes, RM1(SS) SubVets Redfish base, Slidell LA
October 7, 2023
Chief Franks, may you enjoy fair winds and following seas on your final deployment. Godspeed, Sailor. Rest your oars, we have the watch.
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Tiffanie
August 24, 2023
Mr David was one of my favorite patients . He will be missed . He was such a kind and funny guy and I´m glad I had the honor to be his nurse.
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