Mary Frances McDaniel (Franks)

Mary Frances McDaniel (Franks), beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, was born in Tennessee and spent most of her life in New Haven, Illinois. She was the daughter of Charlie and Bertha McDaniel and grew up in a large, loving family with 17 siblings.

Mary was the devoted mother of Tom (Mary Jo) Gibbs of New Haven, IL; Mike (Carrie) Gibbs of South Carolina; and Dennis Avery (Lindsay) Franks of New Haven, IL. She was also blessed with eight grandchildren: Deidra Gibbs, Jayrdon Gibbs, Rebecka Wilson, Grant Gibbs, Ava Franks, Ana Franks, Autumn Drumm, Jonathan Franks, and Will Franks, as well as many great-grandchildren who brought her so much joy. She also leaves behind two step-daughters, Leisa Pettyjohn and Voni Salee.

Mary worked for many years as a CNA at Wabash Christian Nursing Home before serving as a home caregiver with Golden Circle for several years. After retiring, she found her greatest calling—caring for her granddaughters, Ava and Ana, who were the light of her life.

She cherished visits with family in Tennessee, loved spending time with her grandchildren and sons, and enjoyed simple pleasures such as sewing, working word searches, and gathering with loved ones for cookouts, holidays, and birthdays.

Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Walter Franks; her son, Stanley Roe Franks; her step-son, Donald Franks; and several of her siblings.

She will be deeply missed by her sons, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family, and especially by her granddaughters, Ava and Ana, with whom she shared a special bond. 

A graveside service will be held at a later date.