James (J.W.) William Franks

James William Franks ( J.W.), 82, of Lefors, passed away December 28, 2022 in McLean.

James William Franks, or J.W. to those who knew him best, was born on Jan. 21, 1940. He and Nora, his wife of 65 years, raised two sons and four grandchildren. As a young man, Jay worked on a variety of road construction jobs in Texas and Colorado. While building highway 273 around Lefors, he and Nora decided to plant roots. He ran the Texaco Service station and eventually bought Adams & Franks, a dirt contracting company which he owned and operated for over 30 years.

Across his life, Jay served as the fire chief, a city council member, and the Mayor of Lefors. He was an active member of the Panhandle Boat and Ski Club, and every summer he and his family camped at Lake Greenbelt. Jay made annual trips to Colorado to hunt and fish. He was also an avid photographer. Most evenings, you’d find Jay at Sandy’s or enjoying a cold one with friends at the family farm. He had a great sense of humor and an exquisite memory.

Jay is survived by his wife, Nora Franks of Lefors; his brother, Jerry Franks of Vernon; his son, Larry Franks of Lefors; seven grandchildren—Tiffanie Hampton of Houston, Keith Franks of Lefors, Tenille Shade of Argyle, Kody Franks of Amarillo, and Devan Franks, Brooke Warren, and Madison Franks of The Colony. He is also survived by ten great-grandchildren and six great-great-grandchildren.

 A celebration of life service is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 7, 2023 at the Lefors Senior Citizens Center. Arrangements and cremation are under the direction of Carmichael-Whatley Funeral Directors and Crematory.

Memorials can be made to the Lefors Senior Citizens Center, 806 N Main St, Lefors, TX 79054.