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Jonathan Franks Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Jonathan Franks
Elyse Kotkin
May 15, 2025
Neill Franks was one of my political science professors at FSU in the early 2000s. I have been a high school social science teacher now for 17 years. Neill is who helped me get my internship required for graduation. No one else was helping me! He walked into Firehouse Subs, where I worked at the time, for lunch and I told him of my predicament. Boom! A few days later, I had an internship in place at the local high school.
Today, May 15th, 2025, I happened to have a conversation with one of my students about her majoring in political science. I was talking about Professor Franks and how he made such a difference in my life. I then Googled if he was still at the university. To my dismay, his legacy page popped up. It just so happens, today is the 15th anniversary of his passing. :-(
Cheers to you, Professor Neill Franks! You made a difference.
Thank you for your kindness. Always. Rest easy.
Elyse Kotkin
Florida State University Class of 2008
Grant Pittman
June 14, 2010
Neil was not just my friend but my brother. It has took me awile to write
anything because I had to collect my thoughts. He died wright before my wedding,and It was hard to go through with but I now he would have wanted me to carry on. I have had him I my life since we were both 16 years old. I cant help but feel a hole in my heart cause he is not here. I will always think of all the good times we had. We never judged one another at anytime of our life. He was part of my family and I was apart of his. Thanks for always being there for me when i needed someone to talk to or ask a question. Don and debbie my heart goes out to yall, good bless He was one in a million.
Sarah Blechman
May 28, 2010
Neill was one of the greatest men I have ever known. He was as brilliant as he was compassionate. He could fix anything, from a broken air vent to social security. Niell's outstanding moral fiber will be with me for the rest of my days....he was a paradigm human being
Caroline
May 26, 2010
Neil Franks was a man anyone could go to for help. He was so knowledgeable and always willing to help....weather it was his job to or not! He did a lot of favors for me. I was planning on thanking him with a gift and heartfelt letter at my graduation this spring semester. I think I still will. We will miss you Neil. :-(
Robin Leach
May 24, 2010
I am so sorry for your loss. Neill was one of the people at FSU we could always count on to be there for students. What a fine man and what a huge loss.
Merri Brown
May 24, 2010
I am so sorry to hear of Neill's passing. I am grateful for his help during my years at FSU. Had it not been for Neill's help, I would not be graduating this semester. May he rest in peace and may his family find the strength to continue on with their loss.
Rebecca, Mary, Beth, Tom, Jessica, and TC Burr
May 20, 2010
Neill was undoubtedly one of the best people I have ever had the privilege of knowing. He constantly worked to help others. He showed his passion through his work; his conversations; his teaching; his advising; even his love for the Auburn Tigers and Dallas Cowboys. Neill never did anything half-heartedly; he gave everything 100% and was not happy until everything was solved. Neill’s humor, intelligence, and compassion made a mark on every person he encountered. Neill was always considered a part of our family and will be missed tremendously. The world has lost an incredibly amazing person and friend, but gained an unbelievably remarkable angel.
Stephen Whitney
May 19, 2010
My deepest condolences to Neill's family. I took one of his classes and had a few interactions with him professionally. I am truly sorry for your loss.
Merit L
May 19, 2010
Neill Franks single-handedly revived my love of politics. The one poli sci class I took in Summer 2004, Elites and Representation, made me change my major that summer, and I haven't looked back since. I always thought about writing him an e-mail one day to let him know that he changed my life. It makes me incredibly sad to know that I can't now. He was amazing. I'm so terribly sorry for his family, and for the future students of FSU that will never have such an unparalleled professor.
Scott Schwartz
May 19, 2010
It was an honor and pleasure to know Neill. I am sorry for your family's great loss. Your family will be in my thoughts.
Tanya Johnson
May 19, 2010
Debbie and Don,
May your Faith in God find the ways to comfort you during this difficult time and give you both a since of peace.
Your both in my prayers.
Scott Wang
May 18, 2010
Neill was a great teacher and even better friend. It saddens me greatly that he has left us so early and I will miss is wit and insight.
Michael Meyer
May 18, 2010
He was an excellent teacher and I really enjoyed talking football with him before class last fall; may he rest in peace.
Shelbie Witte
May 18, 2010
Neill was such a strong advocate for the students of the College of Education at FSU. He touched the lives of many young people in such a positive way, stopping and giving them his full attention when they needed it the most. That legacy, the willingness to help others, will live on through the example he set for so many. Rest in peace, Neill. You made the world a better place.
May 18, 2010
Debbie,
May God continue to be with you during this difficult time. Take comfort in knowing you and your families are on the hearts of your many friend and many prayers are being sent up for you.
Dot Myers
Ibrahim Allison
May 18, 2010
May he rest in peace
May 18, 2010
Debbie, John and to the family, we are so sorry for your loss. Our prayers, sympathy, and love surround you at this time. May God give you comfort.
Vic & Becky Turlington
Pat Ledbetter
May 18, 2010
I will miss working with Neill. He was always such a joy to talk to.
Mark and Wendy Blanton
May 18, 2010
Neill was always such a pleasure, truly someone you wanted to surround yourself with. What a tragic loss for all. May God continue to bless your family during this time.
Stephen Thomas
May 18, 2010
Neill and I became instant friends during our graduate studies in the International Affairs Master's Program at Florida State University. His intellect, wit and passion inspired me and many others here in Tallahassee. Your loss is shared by many of us here who will never forget our dear friend.
May 18, 2010
Oh, Neill. You will be so missed in so many. You were always strong and willing to do the right thing for students and those with whom you worked. We will all miss your wit, compassion, and commitment. Life will not be the same without being able to talk and laugh with you.
Sherry Odom
May 18, 2010
Debbie, Don & family,
I know we wonder just how much we can bear and your family has certainly had their share of heartache but I can only think that maybe Tyler and Ryan needed a 1st baseman. There truly is no greater heartache than the loss of a child but our love and memories carry us through with the strength of God, family and friends. Please know I am here day or night just like Kim was for me. This is not a sisterhood you want to join but I promise you will never find one with more loving allies. I am so sorry I never had a chance to meet Neil but he certainly sounds like a remarkable man but knowing his Momma that doesn't surprise me at all. I just heard about it tonight and I send my love and prayers and I will see you soon. I love you, Sherry Odom
Whitney Travaglini
May 17, 2010
Neill was the one person I could count on to guide me in the right direction throughout my five years at FSU. I truly do not know what I am going to do without him during this next semester! He was a wonderful friend and mentor. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. I know you are watching over us, Neill. You will be missed.
Kathy Clark
May 17, 2010
My heart aches for Neill's family -- including his FSU family. It is truly tragic that his life was cut short, as I can only imagine what impact and reach he would continue to have...In the time I knew Neill, he impressed me as one of the 'straight-shooters' that are difficult to find in the world of higher ed and I respected him greatly for that quality.
Here's to you, Neill...
Cristina Rios
May 17, 2010
" Neil was a true blessing to all the students and faculty in the FSU-PC Campus. He was the true "Angel of Education". Thanks Mr.& Mrs. Frank for sharing your wonderful son with all of us. He will be missed.
Cristina Rios-Elementary Education
Darrell & Dee McManus
May 17, 2010
Debbie & Don,
I am so sorry for your loss. May God be with you and your family in this troubled time and give you the faith to carry on. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Aaron Binns
May 17, 2010
Neil was a good friend of mine for many years. He and I spent many a night at my house or his hanging and chatting with our friends. Football season will never be the same without him. RIP my friend. My heart goes out to your family. I'm going to miss you mate.
Suzanne Spencer
May 17, 2010
For my Aunt Debbie and Uncle Don. We are so very sorry about Neill. We truly wish we could of met him and got to know him. We love both of you very much and wish we could be there with you. Luv, Suzanne, Jamie, Trenna, and Kaylee.
May 17, 2010
I work in the Registrar's Office and I have spoken to Mr. Frank on a daily, I'm going to really miss him. He know his job well.
Dan Jenkins
May 17, 2010
Neill was a great friend and ally. He lived every day to its fullest and inspired everyone around him. I worked with Neill in student government at FSU. He was always dedicated to making campus better and having fun while doing it. We will truly miss you.
Dan & Stacey Jenkins (and all the members of "the Tribe!")
Ashley
May 17, 2010
I was an upper-level transfer student to Florida State University. Because of this, Neill was the one who introduced me to Florida State, approved my credits and basically set me up for school at FSU. Throughout the remainder of my student career, Neill was always checking up on me and asking if there was anything he could help me with. He was the one who got me into all the right classes and the one who approved the paperwork for me to graduate when no one else could even find the piece of paper. He was always so vibrant and willing to help me. I owe my entire successful career at FSU and my being able to receive my diploma to him. He is missed dearly.
Lori Cummings Hamilton (and family)
May 17, 2010
I was terribly saddened to hear of Neill's passing. He and I worked together at Florida State University, but quickly became great buddies outside of the office. We spent many nights having long talks on the back deck at my house (thank goodness that deck can't talk). We joked, laughed, shared secrets, gave advice, and even had some healthy debates. He was a good man. My thoughts and prayers go out to your family during this difficult time. I know I will miss my friend. With love...
Michael Hart
May 17, 2010
My most heartfelt and deepest sympathies. Your family is in my prayers.
Jerry Fisher
May 17, 2010
Neill was an enthusiatstic mentor for students, and a wonderful colleague. Having earned a degree in the Department of Political Science, he continued to teach courses for the department and was one of our most popular instructors. He was loved by all of the Florida State University community, and that family mourns his loss today.
Jeannette Houston
May 17, 2010
From our home to yours we keep you and your family in our prayers. Even though we only just met Neill last year he was the kindest and funniest person we have met. Please except our warmest wishes on this time of need.
The Houston's
Allen, Jeannette, Allen Jr. and Robbie
Lisha Stafford
May 17, 2010
I worked with Neill for several years, and we have told each other all kinds of stories about each other. Now that is gone. Neill was a wonderful person, he always made me smile and laugh. I will miss him so much. He will stay in my heart forever!!! Lisha Stafford (Tallahassee,Fl)
Tracy Shelby
May 17, 2010
Neill came into my life during a time when I was not looking for a partner. His quick wit, wise cracking comments, brilliance and nurturing demeanor shattered my resistance to loving and being loved. I will miss him every day.
Tracy, or as Neill called me LaTracy
Martha Patterson Sykes
May 17, 2010
Our thoughts and prayers go out to you all, May God be with you and guide you in your time if sorrow, So sorry to hear of your loss.
Sherry Southerland
May 16, 2010
How is this possible? The world will be a much poorer place without Neill's wit, intelligence and grace. Students have lost a capable advocate, and many of us have lost a friend.
Jennifer Richardson Fulton
May 16, 2010
Uncle Catfish and Debbie,
You spoke of John often when I visited Fayetteville to see Gran Gran Duck. You are in my families thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Joanne Tuggle
May 16, 2010
My prayers and thoughts are with you. I pray that God will give you comfort during this time.
May 16, 2010
I also worked with Neill as faculty housed at the PC/FSU campus. He was brilliant, had the quick answers and solutions, and was always willing to help. He would laugh when I told him that the issues made my head hurt and reply that I made his head hurt. He was respected and will be missed.
Marion Fesmire
FSU/PC
Janet Lenz
May 16, 2010
I was greatly saddened to hear of Neill's passing. I remember his smile, his sense of humor. He was always willing to be helpful, find an answer to a question, and share his wealth of knowledge about all things academic at FSU and the College of Education. My sympathies to his friends and family.
Terri Powell
May 16, 2010
I am so sorry, I worked with him at the college of education. He will be missed by all that knew him.
Ingrid Hardison
May 16, 2010
John and Debbie,
My heart hurts for you both.I wish I could say or do anything to help. Just know that someday we will all be with our loved ones again.You are truly in my thoughts and prayers.
May 16, 2010
I worked with Neill from the Panama City Campus of FSU. He was always joking, kind, and helpful. We have all experienced a great loss. Thank you for raising a great man. You all will be in our thoughts and prayers. Nancy Dingus, Panama City, FL
Rita Gibson
May 16, 2010
My heart aches for all of you. I lost my daughter Kati last year and I pray that God keeps you all in his embrace. You are all in my thoughts, my prayers and my shared tears.
Pattie Patterson
May 16, 2010
John,
We've been through a lot in our lives (a lot of it together, too) and I can only imagine what you are going through right now. My love heart and prayers are with you and your family now. Please call me if I cn do anything for you or just to talk. I love you dearly!
Patti Tidwell
May 16, 2010
John and Debbie, I am so sorry. Our children are our heart.. You both are in my prayers.
Daniel Goins
May 16, 2010
Please know that I Love You both and I will be there for you in any way I can. You will get through this with the help of God and your friends. Don't hesitate to call on either .
Danny Goins
Joanne Brown
May 16, 2010
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
May 16, 2010
May the Lord be with you and help you find peace.
George (Lindy) Lott
Patti Mitchell Cameron
May 16, 2010
John and Debbie,
I am so sorry to hear of your son's passing. There can be no greater pain than the loss of a child. I will keep both of you in my thoughts and prayers.
Love to both of you...
Christina Jester
May 16, 2010
Debbie,
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Christina Kamionka Jester
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