Marva Franks- Thomas

Marva Diane was born June 25, 1948 to Marvin and Francis Russell in California, MO, where she was raised until the family relocated to Kansas City, MO at a young age.

Marva was the eldest of six siblings Ronald, Morris, Eric, Lydia, and Marvin Jr.

As a child, she was raised in a loving home where they believed in family first and remained very close. She grew up in the church with her siblings and was a lifelong member of Second Baptist Church of Kansas City, MO.

As a young adult she entered her first marriage to Richard Franks Sr. eventually welcoming her two sons Richard and Roger Franks who she considered her world.

Marva went on to meet her life partner, Army Veteran, Aaron Thomas who she shared 34 years of marriage. Together, they raised Richard and Roger as well as a grand-daughter Marisa Franks who she took in as her own.

She went on to work and eventually retire from the City of Kansas City, MO after over 30 years of employment.

Marva was sweet, loving and fun. She was quick witted and loved to laugh and have a good time with her family. You could depend on her to be there as a gentle listening ear when needed or to make jokes and just laugh together.

Her favorite past time was baking. If you were lucky enough to have her creations, you know she was a phenomenal baker and cook, her family being her number one fans and often having special request for her delicious desserts. Marva also loved to shop and had many favorite stores she frequented in her spare time.

Marva is proceeded in death by her father, Marvin B. Russell Sr. and son Richard Franks Jr.

She is survived by her husband, Aaron Thomas, mother, Francis Russell, son Roger Franks. Siblings, Ronald Russell (Robin), Morris Russell (Susan), Eric Russell (Alicia), Lydia Taylor (John) and Marvin Russell Jr. (Michelle). She also leaves behind 12 grand-children, 17 great-grand-children as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and close extended family who loved her dearly.

She will be truly missed.