Dr. William Alphonso Franks Remembered for His Service

OKLAHOMA CITY — Dr. William Alphonso Franks passed away on April 18 at the age of 89. A lifelong educator, Dr. Franks served as a Chemistry professor for many years at Langston University. He also served as a deacon at New Hope Baptist Church in Langston, Oklahoma.
Born July 3, 1936 in Tatums, Oklahoma to W.E. Franks and Winnie Mae (Leonard) Franks, William developed the foundation of values that would guide his life – faith in God, a commitment to learning, and a deep love for family – from a young age.
He began his college education at Langston University before graduating from the University of Oklahoma with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, a Master’s in Physical Chemistry, and a Doctorate in Chemistry.
In his early years, William was blessed with a child; he later married the love of his life, Loretta (Williamson) Franks, and they were blessed with five children.
William began his professional career working at Visking Union Carbine in Chicago, Illinois. Six years later, he and his family moved to Boston, Massachusetts, where he completed his postdoctoral studies at Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
Dr. Franks was honored to be part of a research team contributing to efforts toward finding cures for sickle cell anemia – a cause that held deep significance for him.
He and his family later returned home to Langston, Oklahoma, where he poured into his community.
Dr. Franks served as a Dean of the Division of Arts and Sciences, Chairman of the Physical Science Department, and a Chemistry professor for many years at Langston University. He later continued his legacy as an adjunct Chemistry professor at Langston University. His dedication to education impacted countless students, many of whom carry his lessons forward today.
Beyond academia, Dr. Franks was a man of many talents with an entrepreneurial spirit. In the 1980s, he owned and operated Frank’s Research Labs as a thriving business organization. Through his business, he developed a cosmetic line for Black women called Ebb’tone, cleaning products called Sudsy Pine, a product line of soybean oligomers printing inks, and a process to degum crude soybean oil.
He also faithfully served the Town of Langston for many years, overseeing the water department with diligence and care.
His faith was the cornerstone of his life. Dr. Franks served as a devoted deacon at New Hope Baptist Church in Langston, Oklahoma. He lived by his favorite scripture, 1 Thessalonians 5:17 – “Pray without ceasing,” a principle he embodied daily.
Dr. Franks was also an avid runner who valued health and discipline, always encouraging others to take care of their bodies and minds.
He was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Sharon Louise Franks.
Dr. Franks is survived by his loving wife, Loretta Franks; his children Brent Franks, William (Chitra) Franks, Leonard Franks, Valerie (Charles) Franks Jones, and Patrick Franks; his sister Helen Franks Miner; 14 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, loved ones and friends.
Dr. William Alphonso Franks will be remembered for his brilliance, his service, his unwavering faith, and his deep love for his family and community. His legacy will live on through the lives he touches, the knowledge he shared, and the faith in which he walked.