Melvin A. Franks Sr.

On August 7th 1943, Melvin A Franks was born to Lois Fortinberry and Andy Franks. He attended Kankakee High School, completed some college, and received several certifications. Melvin was a semi-truck driver, and owner- operator of his own business. He worked at Pontiac Prison for many years and mentored several young men during his tenure. Melvin was a mentor and guide to many. Melvin began preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ at the very young age of 13. He attended and was a member of New Jackson Tabernacle COGIC in Kankakee, IL. He was ordained as an Elder, and very active in the church, and ministered on certain Sundays of each month. Melvin was united in holy matrimony with Carolyn Patterson, and to this beautiful union three children were born. Melvin enjoyed riding his many Harley-Davidson motorcycles and driving his fancy sport cars over the years. He also enjoyed spending quality time with his family. He loved engaging with his children and grandchildren, he was present at every important event in their lives. He celebrated their accomplishments and was always their biggest encourager. Melvin A Franks Sr. departed this life on Saturday, November 5th, 2022. He leaves to cherish his memory and to celebrate his life, his wife Carolyn Franks; one daughter, Melita Randolph; one son , Kim Franks; eleven grandchildren, Genesis Randolph, Levitia Randolph, Nadia Randolph, Melvin Franks III, Jatavia Knight Lockett, Quinton Lockett, Devon Franks , Abrien Franks, Kimoni Franks, Noah Franks and King Franks; seven sisters, Cheryl and Kenneth Mckenzie , Ylonda and Craig Calhoun, Regina and Pastor Adam Crews, Donna Cook, Mary Brown, Bertha Darnell and Denise Smith; three brothers, Sanders Brown, Dennis Brown, and Keith Wright; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Melvin A Franks Sr. was preceded in death by his son Melvin Antonio Franks Jr, parents Lois Brown, Andy Franks and SK Brown; maternal grandparents Fodie and Lula Fortinberry; sisters, Marva Shoffener, and Deborah Wright; brothers, David Franks, Roger Franks, Floyd Franks, Marcus Brown, and Terry Brown; as well as his mother-in-law, Vera Merrill. Visitation will be held Sunday, November 13, 2022, at Jensen Funeral Home, Kankakee from 1pm to 4pm. The funeral service will be held on Monday, November 14, 2022, at New Jackson Tabernacle Church of God in Christ, Kankakee at noon with visitation prior to the service starting at 11am. Burial will follow at Mound Grove Cemetery, Kankakee. Tributes of Love To My Husband, Melvin A Franks Sr. – You were my everything, our lives intertwined perfectly. From the first time we met, we knew that our love was meant to be, until the end. I’ll always love you immensely, and there is no replacement for you. You were my King, yes, it’s true, my King. You were an excellent provider and life partner. We had three beautiful children who are the perfect blend of us both. You were strong and God fearing at that same time. Our family extended with grandchildren, who adore you. As I sat and held your hand on Saturday, November 5th, the day you departed your earthly body, I knew that my life would never be the same; however, thankful to have spent 57 years as your wife, and life partner. Rest In Heaven my King- Love, Carolyn Daddy – I’ll Always Love You - Words can’t express how much I’ll miss you. The days that I took you to Dairy Queen for an ice cream cone, and then we would just take a drive through the old neighborhoods. The days we would sit outside together during my visits. We both love/loved to be outside, as that’s where our peace is. Just enjoying what God has created. You would tell me that you were happy just to be with me. You were one of the coolest dads, and you certainly enjoyed your toys. But Daddy, the way you prayed!!! I remember coming home one day, and you were in your room praying. The door was closed, and all I saw was a bright white light coming from under the door. I was young and hadn’t yet accepted Christ as my personal savior. When I saw that light and heard the power in your prayer. My thought was, WOW, God is in there with him. I want to know whatever that is, I want that experience. Thank you, Daddy- It’s said that a Father is a daughter’s first love, and that is a statement that I certainly agree with. I’m thankful and grateful that God chose you to be my Father. You were the epitome of what being a Father/Daddy is supposed to be. There was no love deficit in our household. We loved on each other while you lived. Your love, and your teachings are engrained in me. I’ll always represent you well Daddy. Rest In Paradise My Love- Love, Melita Tributes of Love Grandad – Gone to soon I do believe But in your life, God’s grace you did receive More than words you meant to me So in my heart you will always be Now with God, I ask that you watch over me Guide and Keep me safe as I take this Journey Love, Levitia Grandad I’m going to miss you so much. I’m so blessed to have spent 31 years with you. I’ll never stop loving you. Fly high my Angel. May you rest in peace with the Lord. Your granddaughter, Nadia Melvin, my big brother, I remember the day you were praying at home when I was child. It was the most powerful prayer that I’d ever heard. That was the moment that I knew prayer was a necessity. As you prayed it made me want to pray too. You told me to come over to join you, and I knelt and began to pray with you side by side- Ylonda To my beloved grandfather whom I so loved, cherished, and honored. The one who taught me how to walk. Who was as a priest in my life, answering my inquiries about the word of God, each answer filled my heart with excitement. Longing for the next time we can go over what I found new in the bible. Your words were wise, your words empowered me, fueled my dreams, reminded me who is really in control in my life. That I am not alone, and I can overcome anything. You, granddad, gave me insight on how a man should be. I love you always and forever.... Your eldest granddaughter, Genesis Big Bro, I have many wonderful memories from Thanksgiving, and time we spent together as a family. I’m going to truly miss those times, and most of all I’ll miss you. I love you Lil Sis, Cheryl