Richard Franks

Richard Franks obituary, Portland, IN

Richard Franks

Richard Franks Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Baird-Freeman Funeral Home on Feb. 12, 2026.
Baird-Freeman Funeral Home

221 North Meridian

Portland, Indiana 47371

260-726-7171

[email protected]

Richard Franks, age 66, of Portland passed away on Wednesday February 11, 2026 in IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital in Muncie. He was born in Portland on March 27, 1959 the son of Francis and Berneice (Scott) Franks. He was married on April 5, 2002 to Michelle Rees who survives. Richard was retired in 2024 from Ardaugh in Dunkirk as a maintenance supervisor. He was a 1977 Jay County High School graduate and enjoyed fishing and riding motorcycles. He was an avid Indianapolis Colts fan.

Surviving is his wife Michelle, one son Joseph R. Franks (wife Kelsey) of Fort Wayne, three daughters Carrie Rosenbeck (husband Mitch) of St. Henry, Ohio, Jessica Franks of Portland and Megan Bihn (husband Jamie) of Portland, three brothers John Franks (wife Brenda) of Portland, Dave Franks of Portland and Darrell Derringer of Portland, Fourteen grandchildren, one great grandson and one on the way. He was preceded in death by a brother Mike Franks.

Funeral services will be Tuesday February 17th at 1:00 PM in the Baird-Freeman Funeral Home with Pastor Mitchell Rees presiding. Burial will be in Black Cemetery. Visitation will be Tuesday from 11:00 – 1:00 PM. Memorials can be made to the choice of the donor. Online condolences at bairdfreeman.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Sign Richard Franks's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

February 17, 2026

Deborah Perrot posted to the memorial.

February 13, 2026

Diana Reed posted to the memorial.

February 12, 2026

Baird-Freeman Funeral Home posted an obituary.

2 Entries

Deborah Perrot

February 17, 2026

Michelle I am so sorry. I wish I could have been at his funeral today. Wish we were closer. Hugs and I will be praying for you and your family. Deborah and Pat Perrot

Diana Reed

February 13, 2026

Michelle ~ my sincere condolences to you and your family. May you cherish all the wonderful memories you made together and, may Richard rest in heavenly peace.
*** I hope I remember correctly that you and Richard are the same people from Albany/Dunkirk area!
(Diana "Whiteman" Reed)

Showing 1 - 2 of 2 results

Baird-Freeman Funeral Home

221 N Meridian St., Portland, IN 47371

Make a Donation
in Richard Franks's name

How to support Richard's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services, and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Richard Franks's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign Richard Franks's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

February 17, 2026

Deborah Perrot posted to the memorial.

February 13, 2026

Diana Reed posted to the memorial.

February 12, 2026

Baird-Freeman Funeral Home posted an obituary.