Anna Belle Hales Franks, age 91 and long-time Tulsa resident, passed away October 2, 2019 surrounded by her family. A homemaker and devoted wife to husband Buyrl, mother to daughter Lea Anne Holmes and husband Tim, daughter Janice Coates and husband Bill, grandmother to Dustin Sharp, Tony Holmes and Kelsey Kauffman. She was a Great Grandmother, Aunt and loyal decades long close friend. Ann attended Tulsa Central High School where she studied drafting and later worked for several oil companies mapping oil wells. A position that was uncommon for women in the 1950s. Other jobs included the Office of Election Polling, MetLife and Gayle's Force Marketing.
Ann was an engaging and inquisitive person who reached out to people of every walk of life. She loved being involved and helped with organizing and planning with numerous volunteer organizations. The Buckaroos and Tulstars (Square Dancing) in the 1960's, League of Women Voters, Salvation Army, Tri-T and Bixby Gardening club to name only a few.
Ann had an artistic flare, learned to basket weave, paint with watercolors and acrylics, and helped paint Buyrl's wood cravings. Many family and friends have treasured items hand made by Ann.
Over the next-door neighbor's fence, Ann met the love of her life and husband of 72 years, Buyrl Franks. After a short courtship they married and ten years later they welcomed their first daughter Lea Anne, and four years later, daughter Janice. She was helpful and caring for her family and friends. Ann touched many lives, more than words can express. Some have commented she is currently in heaven helping St. Peter organize crowd control!
Visitation is Sunday, October 6, from 2-4 pm at Moore's Southlawn Funeral Home, 9350 E. 51st, Tulsa. Family and friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Her Life on Monday, October 7 at 1:00 at Forest Park Christian Church, 9102 S. Mingo Road, Tulsa.
Moore's Southlawn 918-663-2233