In the soft, sweet whispers of the Southern wind, we bid farewell to a blessed soul, our beloved Frankie Jean Black Stanley. Born on the 6th day of January in the year of our Lord 1949, in the humble town of Gordon, Alabama, Frankie was a beacon of love, passion, and spirited energy. On the 25th day of August 2023, in Dothan, Alabama, she peacefully departed this earthly realm, leaving a legacy of love and warmth that will forever be remembered.
Frankie was the cherished daughter of the late Raymond Black and Eddie Louise Wilson, and the adored granddaughter of Lola Odom. Her daughter: Leslie (George) Black of Dothan, Alabama, and her son: Andre (Amanda) Black, both of Kinsey, Alabama. She was a loving sister to Patricia (Jim) Williams of Two Egg, Florida, Joyce (Albert) Ellis of Gulfport, Mississippi, Ruby Austin of Rochester, New York, and Gwen (Charlie) Howard of Gordon, Alabama. Her Aunt Doris Bowers of Los Angeles, California, and her great Aunt Mary Hawkins of Huntsville, Alabama, also held a special place in her heart.
Frankie was a devoted mother to her mother: Eddie Louise Wilson of Kinsey, Alabama. She was a devoted grandmother to Tavares Black and Jasmine Goodwin of Dothan, Alabama, and a proud great-grandmother to Nevaeh McElroy and Noah Goodwin. Her love for them was as vast as the Southern sky, as deep as the Alabama River.
Her educational journey began in the hallowed halls of Philadelphia School. Frankie graduated from Columbia High School in 1967, where she was crowned Ms. Columbia, and served as the President of her class, demonstrating her spirited leadership. She furthered her education at Wallace Community College, exhibiting her passion for learning by excelling in her studies in accounting.
Frankie's work history was a testament to her determination and hard work. She was employed at the Columbia Blouse Factory for many years before her retirement. She also served as a telephone operator at Dothan Chrysler, where she managed other duties with grace and efficiency.
Frankie was also a successful businesswoman, owning a home cleaning business in the late '80s to mid '90s, and a catering business from the '90s to the early 2000s. Her work ethic was an inspiration to all who knew her.
Frankie's loving spirit extended beyond her family. She had a special friend, Ms. Dianne, who was always there to lend a helping hand every Saturday. She was grateful for her neighbor and friend, Mrs. Trudy Baxter, and she cherished the camaraderie of Ronnie Morris, Theodis Jones, and Glenza Gary.
In the style of a Southern preacher, let us remember Frankie Jean Black Stanley, not with sorrow, but with joy. For she lived a life full of love, passion, and spirit. She was a pillar in her community, a guiding light to her family, and a friend to all. Her legacy will continue to inspire and guide us, like the Southern Star on a clear Alabama night. So let us lift our hearts and give thanks for the life of Frankie Jean Black Stanley, a true Southern gem, whose spirit will forever shine brightly in the hearts of all who knew her. Amen.
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