Mrs. Willa Mai Smith Franks

Mrs. Willa Mai Smith Franks of Tampa, FL passed away on Saturday, December 7, 2024. Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, December 28, 2024, 11:00 a.m. at Ray Williams Memorial Chapel, 301 N. Howard Avenue, Tampa, FL 33610 with Apostle Harold Scott and Pastor Deborah Scott, Officiating. Interment will follow in Rest Haven Memorial Park Cemetery, 4615 E. Hanna Avenue, Tampa, FL 33610.

Willa Mai, affectionately known as “Nana” was born January 12, 1933, In Brooklyn, New York to Ellen Emily Baker-Smith and John Baptiste Smith. Nana was a Home Childcare Provider. She provided care for over 100 children within her lifetime. She had a special love for children, no child was ever turned away from her door.

Willa Mai received her education in the Brooklyn New York School system. She married Elder Zeno Franks Jr. at the age of 19. Out of their 38-year union were born: 1 son, Zeno Andre (Loida) and 3 daughters, Denise Jacqueline (Smitty), Yolanda Marcia (Gordon), and Kim Monique (Roy).

Willa Mai was preceded in death by: her loving husband of 38 years, Zeno Franks Jr; father, John B. Smith; mothers, Ellen E. Smith, and Thelma Smith; 9 sisters; 2 brothers; and her eldest daughter (Denise Jacqueline Williams) aunt, Carrie Sutter.

She leaves to cherish her memories: her 2 daughters, Kim and Yolanda; son, Zeno Andre; 9 grandchildren; 19 great grandchildren; sister, J Snow Fox Lawrence; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and Godchildren.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, December 28, 2024, at Ray Williams Funeral Home, 301 N. Howard Avenue, Tampa, FL 33606 from 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Arrangements entrusted to Ray Williams Funeral Home, Rhodes & Northern, Owners. www.raywilliamsfuneralhome.com

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Mrs. Willa Mai Smith Franks, please visit our floral store.