Ronald Gene Franks

Ronald Gene Franks, 72, of Bethel Springs, Tennessee, passed away peacefully at his home on September 12, 2025. Born on February 28, 1953, in Munford, Tennessee.
Ronald worked for 21 years as a heavy machine operator with the McNairy County Highway Department. His love for heavy machinery and tractors wasn't just a job; it was a passion. Whether he was welding, tinkering with vehicles, or rebuilding equipment, Ronald could always be found with his hands busy, and his mind focused on the next project. He had a gift for fixing just about anything.
Ronald was a hard worker who often put others' needs before his own. He made countless sacrifices for his children and grandchildren, always placing their happiness and well-being above his own. He loved and adored his grandchildren. Ronald was a man who knew how to enjoy life. He had an unmistakable sense of humor that could brighten your day. He was opinionated and never afraid to speak his mind, but he did so with a firm kindness that earned respect from all who knew him. He found joy in simple pleasures: line dancing, strumming his guitar, and singing old country tunes, Christian hymns, and of course some Lynyrd Skynyrd.
He is preceded in death by his parents; Roy M. Franks Sr. and Retha Mae Wright Franks, his siblings; Bobby Franks, Roy Franks Jr., Barry Franks, Judy Franks Butler, and Shirley Franks Blevins.
Ronald is survived by his children; Richard Franks (Jennifer), Susan Cawley (Jared), and Chelsea Franks, his sisters; Peggy Knight and Betty Guy, and his grandchildren; Kiera Cawley, Gracelyn Young, Kason Franks, Aubrey Franks, and Adelyn Franks.
A funeral service will be held at Maley Yarbrough funeral home on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, at 10:00am, the family will begin receiving guest at 9:45am. In a fitting tribute to the life he lived and loved, Ronald's final ride will be on his tractor, taking him to his resting place at RH Munford Cemetery.