Mary Frances "Frankie" Geraldine Garren, while residing with her eldest daughter in Texas, was called to her heavenly home on April 18, 2024.  On this same day, her great-granddaughter, Layla,  also ascended into the embrace of Jesus.

Frankie. was born on April 12, 1929, in Bryson City, North Carolina, to Edward Augustus and Zola Mary (Millsaps) Raynes. Growing up as the third of eight children in Asheville, NC, she faced adversity early on. At the tender age of 16, a stroke left her paralyzed for a year. Despite the grim prognosis, her indomitable spirit propelled her towards an extraordinary recovery, serving as a testament to her resilience. Throughout her life, she battled through multiple serious illnesses, including three more strokes. In true Frankie fashion, she persisted with unwavering determination, defying medical expectations time and again.

In 1951, Frankie met a tall, dashing Marine named Carlyle. Their brief whirlwind romance culminated in Carlyle's spontaneous proposal just prior to his deployment to Korea. They exchanged vows that very night, only for Carlyle to depart just two days later. Their marriage endured the test of time, stretching nearly 71 years until Carlyle's passing. The military life they shared took them across the globe, with Carlyle ultimately retiring from service at Hurlburt Field. Together they settled in Mary Esther, anchoring themselves in a community where their growing family continued to craft new cherished memories.

Frankie epitomized devotion in all aspects of her life—as a loving wife, nurturing mother, doting grandmother, supportive sister, and cherished aunt. Yet, above all, her unwavering faith as a devout Christian and steadfast commitment as a prayer warrior defined her essence. Frankie's warmth and boundless affection touched the lives of all she met. Her love knew no bounds, embracing others unconditionally, while her prayers remained a beacon of hope for all fortunate enough to cross her path. Frankie's absence leaves an irreplaceable void, her impact immeasurable and her presence missed beyond words.

Frankie is survived by her daughters Rebecca (Luke) Franklin of Cypress, TX, Sandra Wood of Anchorage, AK; her sister Joy Warren of Cartersville, GA; grandsons Eric Franklin of Bothell, WA and Joshua Wood of Anchorage, AK; granddaughters KaSandra Akers of Millersburg, OH and Melanie Franklin of Anchorage, AK; 9 great-grandchildren; 4 great-great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.  She was pre-deceased by her husband, Carlyle; grandson, Kristopher Bilger; great-granddaughter, Layla Wood; parents; brothers, Edward Jr, Bruce, William, and Ronnie; her sisters, Colleen Ball and Gloria Gooding; 5 nephews and 3 nieces.  In consideration of Frankie's delicate health, she was shielded from the news of Kristopher's passing.  A joint celebration will be arranged at a later date to honor the memory of each of their lives.