Joseph B. “Joe” Franks, 46, of Greenland, Arkansas, passed away on July 7, 2025, after a long and courageous battle with depression.
Joe is survived by his treasured son, Bodie; his mother, Kathy Franks; his twin brother, John Franks (Kristy); his sisters, Lesley Franks and Cortney Ottemann (Eric); and his cherished nieces and nephews: Kylie Smith, Karson and Kate Franks, Greta Schmeckenbecher, and Elizabeth, Patrick, and William Ottemann. He was preceded in death by his father, Charles “Tommy” Franks, and his grandparents, Lelon & Christine Thomason and Jim & Emil Blackard.
Joe was known for his big heart, loyalty, and love he had for his family and friends. He was a proud member of the Lonoke 1994 state championship football team and also excelled in pole vaulting as a member of track and field team during his junior and high school years. He shared a special, lifelong bond with his twin brother, John — their competitiveness inspired morning workouts and the shared accomplishment of completing the Little Rock Marathon together.
Joe had a sharp mind and a love for strategy, especially in his passion for chess. He found peace in the outdoors, especially while hunting and fishing. He loved quail hunting with his grandfather, Lelon, deer hunting with his dad, and duck hunting with friends. He had a deep affection for animals and took great pride in his work at Waggers Doggy Day Care, Boarding & Grooming. Joe was the friendly face of the business and felt honored to work alongside the Coyle family, caring for the dogs he loved so much.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in Joe’s memory be made to Brand New Church in Farmington, Arkansas, or Wattensaw Cemetery 400 Finley Drive Lonoke, Arkansas, 72086.
Visitation will be held on Friday, July 11, 2025 at 2:00pm with funeral service starting at 3:00pm at Wattensaw Baptist Church.
Arrangements by A Natural State Funeral Service 2620 West Main Street, Jacksonville, Arkansas 72076. 501-982-3400. Online guestbook available at www.anaturalstatefuneralservice.com
24 Comments
Forever in my heart, Joe B. I know you’re resting in peace. All my love, Miranda
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May your soul find eternal rest.🕊️
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I hate you had to return to our father so soon but I know you have achieved your quota from what he put you here for because your heart touched the lives of many and going to continue to live like a legacy here. I really hated to see you go but I love to see you rest and have peace thanks for all you’ve shared and and did two and for me in my life. one thing’s for sure I know I’m going to have my road paved up there when I get up there with you cuz you that type of person. I feel like I’m sitting here beside you but I have to end this because I’m starting to sorrow and this is supposed to be a fellowship I love you and I miss you Joe Kokomo.
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I randomly thought of you yesterday, Joe. I remember thinking you and John were so cool because you were Stephanie’s friends as we were boys. I contemplated on how tough life had been on you. You’ll be missed, and I hope your family finds peace.
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You will never be forgotten brother. RIP
♥️ I love the bond you two had! I remember always getting mad when y’all would pick on me. lol!
So sorry for this terrible loss. May he now and forever rest in Love and Peace.
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It’s unbearable to have to be on this earth without you . I know you are in a much better place and we will see you again but you left a hole in so many hearts the day you left us .
You were an example of how to love and how to spread kindness and how to be a Christian man.❤️🙏
You will always be in our hearts Joe.
See you again , Love you Joe ❤️
Joe’s Jamie
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The CountryCrew will never be the same. You will be loved and remembered by so many. Praying you are at peace. The sorrow is great. Forever in our hearts
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To the most likeable, lovable person, you are one of the fewest people that I considered a true friend. I am forever grateful that I got to cherish all of the years of fun we had and those memories will always be with me. Not just me but my family as well we are truly blessed to have gotten to meet such a true hearted person. We will all miss you every day.
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“Sometimes even to live is an act of courage”. Joe was a strong man and a great friend.
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Please, accept my condolences. May your good memories of times spent together bring you healing and peace.
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I’m just finding out today about your passing. I’m in complete shock. You were the first person I met when Waggers opened. I’m grateful for the friendship and the support you gave me when you heard about my cancer battle. Scout and Charlie loved you very much when we came in. Thank you for being you. I know you’re not in pain anymore and you are in a better place. I know we will see each other again. Take care my friend. Sending prayers for your family. God bless you all.
We were in shock to learn of your passing. What a great guy..so polite, friendly and caring. You were the first person we met at Waggers and the reason we brougt our little Maverick there. Each time I would take him to Waggers I would tell him “we’re going to see Mr. Joe”! You were such a loving, caring person and it was immediately noticeable. . We are very sad we can’t see your smiling face and will always appreciate your kindness to us and pride you took in your job. You will be missed Mr. Joe!
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