Robert Calvin Franks

Robert "Bob" Calvin Franks (1943 - 2024). Robert "Bob" Calvin Franks, aged 80, passed away peacefully on May 1, 2024. Born in Meridian, Mississippi, to Olga Essie Fox and Harry Edward Eubanks, he was later adopted by the man he always considered his true father in all the ways that mattered, Robert Neal Franks.

Bob is preceded in death by his parents and brother, Robert Neal Franks. He is survived by his wife Carol Franks; his son Sean Greenwood (Carla); his son Shawn Mason; his daughter Kelly Prather (Mike); his grandchildren Shawna Mason, Sadie Greenwood, Emma Greenwood, Parker Prather, and Scarlett Greenwood; and his great grandchildren Ezra Burgos, Caspian Burgos, Stella Gunn, and Atreyer Daniel Pecotte. He leaves behind many beloved family members, especially brothers-in-law Bob Pledger, Chip Thompson, and Tommy Thompson, and sisters-in-law Anne Pledger, Shadie Thompson, and Connie Thompson.

Bob's childhood was marked by countless fishing trips in Galveston Bay with his father and brother, instilling in him a lifelong love for the outdoors. A graduate of Robert E. Lee High School in Baytown, Texas, and the University of Texas, Bob was not only an academic but also a leader, serving as the president of the Inter Fraternity Council, an active member of the Sigma Chi fraternity and on many committees in student government. He cherished his time with the Texas Silver Spurs, where he took pride in caring for the university's beloved mascot, Bevo. In 1965, Bob married "Mike" Brown, and together they welcomed a son and a daughter. His heart later led him to Carol Thompson, whom he married and with whom he shared 50 wonderful years, adding another cherished son to his family.

Professionally, Bob's career in the textile industry was distinguished and varied. From a clothing buyer at Foleys to owning a denim import company, and later excelling as an SAP specialist, his work took him across the southeastern United States, finally settling in Rabun Gap upon retirement.

An avid sportsman, Bob enjoyed target shooting and bird hunting with friends. Yet, it was perhaps the quiet moments spent fishing that he treasured most, reminiscent of his youthful days in Texas. Bob was also passionate about tennis and cycling.

Bob will be remembered as a man of integrity and warmth, whose presence enriched the lives of those around him. He leaves behind a legacy of love and steadfastness, mirrored in the family he adored and the friendships he nurtured.

Family and friends are invited to a visitation from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. on Tuesday May 7 at Smith Funeral Home in Winder, Georgia. A graveside service will immediately follow at Rose Hill Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Rabun Paws 4 Life, an organization close to Bob's heart.