William "Bill" Ray Franks

William Ray Franks “Bill” was born November 5,1954 to Ross and Mary Franks in Ridgecrest, California. The family later moved to Holbrook, Arizona. where Bill graduated high school in 1972. Bill passed away peacefully with his loving wife by his side on September 29, 2021.

Bill (Cowboy) was an avid horseman. With this passion, he spent as much time caring, training and boarding for others horse’s as well as his own. Bill worked in a handful of different occupations that he enjoyed throughout his life. Bill’s real passion was in his woodworking and creating custom pieces and decor for custom homes and cabins.

Bill had many accomplishments in life. Some of which were, President of the Chamber of Commerce, Lt. Commander of the Arizona Rangers helping the law enforcement officers. A time Bill was particularly proud of was participating in the Hashknife Pony Express ride. Where he rode horseback across the winter bound horizons of Arizona on a three-day 200-mile relay to the Scottsdale post office. We’re sure Bill’s riding his horse all over Heaven now.

Bill’s greatest love was his family and friends, he always had a story to tell to bring a smile to your face. He was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed camping, hunting and fishing. Through Bill’s adversity with MS in his later years of life, he always remained positive, happy, and involved in everything possible.

Bill is survived by his wife Kathy, son Jason (Crystal), daughter Jennifer (Andy);

sons Brandon (Shelly), Justin (Michelle), daughter Jessica; 17 grandchildren and 5 great grandsons; sister Diane (Roger), brothers Lawrence (Michelle), Steve; father Ross Franks (Sharon), siblings Pam, Kim, Ross, Tiara, Trina.

Preceded in death by, mother Mary Pierce, father Eddie Pierce, grandfather’s and grandmothers.

No formal Services will be held. A private service with immediate family will be held at a later date.

We want to give special Thanks to all the loving and caring staff and friends at the Cascades @ Riverwalk.