Aaron Eugene Franks

US Navy Ret. CPO Aaron Eugene Franks of Killian, LA, born 07-23-1939 in Memphis, TN, has passed away peacefully in his sleep at home surrounded by his family on our great nation’s anniversary, Independence Day July 4th, 2023. A fitting end to the life of a great man who nobly served his country for 22 years and loyally served God and his family for almost 84. He lived his life for and devoted himself to his country, his late wife Barbara Sue and his three surviving children, Tracy Franks of Killian, LA (Scott), Michael Franks of Kellogg, ID (Laura), and Sean Franks of Lewisburg, MS (Amanda), yet asked for nothing in return.

He eloped with his high school sweetheart from Hughes High School, AR, and joined the US Navy to start a family and began his decorated career on carriers such as the USS Enterprise, USS Intrepid, USS Lexington, USS Forrestal and the USS Yorktown. He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal 1st and 2nd, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (Cuban Crisis), 5th Good Conduct Award and the Meritorious Unit Commendation. He enjoyed traveling, being outdoors, building home improvements, playing Texas Hold ‘em, and watching old western movies and boxing matches.

His life of giving and duty made possible the lives of eleven grandchildren: Airica Turner, Mark Jones Jr., Jessica Reed, James Green II, Camille Stone, Cole Cardenas, Aaron Taylor Franks, Mason Franks, Caleob Franks, Alana Franks, and Megan Franks; with five great grandchildren: Walker, Jack, Benjamin, Tripp, and Luke; along with many nieces and nephews. Aaron was preceded in death by his parents Caura Chism of Florida and Albert Franks of Arkansas and his siblings Johnnie Chism and Ruth Smith of Florida. He leaves a surviving brother, Donald Chism of Lake Wells, FL.

Full military honors service will be held at a later date in Wynne, AR.