Jane A. Franks

Jane Arlene Franks, 80, of Grand Forks, ND, passed away Monday, April 1, 2026, at her daughter’s home in River Falls, Wisconsin.

The family arranged and will be hosting Memorial services to be held 11:00 a.m. Saturday, April 11, 2026, at Sharon Lutheran Church in Grand Forks, North Dakota. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. prior to the service at the church.

Jane Arlene (Kjos) Franks was born June 26, 1945, in Badger, MN, the daughter of Oscar and Anna (Bakken) Kjos; the youngest of 15 children. Her mother passed away when Jane was just 15 months old, and she went to live with her Aunt Olga and Uncle Elmer Randklev in Badger. Jane attended school in Badger before moving to Grand Forks, where she graduated from Central High School in 1963.

Jane met Raymond Franks through her friend Sara, who was dating Ray’s brother, Gordy. They were united in marriage on October 18, 1964, at Sharon Lutheran Church in Grand Forks. In her early years, Jane worked at Herberger’s before choosing to stay home to raise her children. She later returned to Herberger’s until its closing. Afterward, she found great joy working as a lunch lady at various elementary schools. Jane was known for her warm smile, kind heart, and the occasional extra chicken nugget she would slip to a child. Her impact on countless students and coworkers remains a lasting testament to her character. For Jane, it was never just about the work—it was always about the people. She formed many lifelong friendships and cherished each one deeply.

Above all, Jane took immense pride in her family, both near and far. When she loved, she loved deeply. She went above and beyond to make holidays and special occasions meaningful, always offering support and encouragement. She was someone you could always count on. Though Jane “loved, loved, loved” her family and friends dearly, her heart was broken after the passing of the love of her life, Ray, in July 2025. After more than 61 years together, they are now reunited, leaving a lasting imprint on all who knew them.

Jane is survived by her children, Kevin (Carolyn) Franks, Kari (Vince) Reese, and Todd Franks; grandchildren, Zachary Franks, Bryanna (Logan) Reese, Kelsey (Tyler) Thorpe, Patrick (Taylor) Budge, and Katelyn Franks; great-grandchildren, Kinley and Kora Thorpe; Ashtyn and Daniella Budge; and River, Wilder, and Eliza Reese; and her sister, Avis Hites.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Raymond Franks; her parents, Oscar and Anna Kjos; her Aunt Olga and Uncle Elmer Randklev, who raised her; and her 13 brothers and sisters.