March 9, 1926 - September 6, 2023
Durham, New Hampshire - Elizabeth "Betty" L'Hote Franks Robin
A long life marked by gratitude, curiosity, and optimism came to an end as Betty Franks, 97, passed away at home in Durham, New Hampshire on September 6, 2023. A lifelong learner and avid reader, Betty was raised in White Plains, New York before her family moved to the Pittsburgh area where she attended Pennsylvania College for Women (now Chatham University). She completed graduate studies in retailing at the University of Pittsburgh and worked as the Fashion Coordinator for downtown Pittsburgh's Gimbels department store.
In 1951 she married George F. Franks, Jr. and raised three sons in the Pittsburgh suburb of Mount Lebanon. Betty served as President of the South Hills College Club and was active in the PTA, various bridge clubs and book review groups. She worked in real estate and insurance after raising her sons. In 1987, she and George moved from Mount Lebanon to Perico Bay Club in Bradenton, Florida. She resided there until 2021 when she moved with husband Ike Newell to Durham, New Hampshire to be closer to family.
She was preceded in death by her parents Ray and LaVinnie L'Hote, husband George, and 2nd husband Clayton Robin.
She is survived by husband of 9 years, Ike Newell, with whom she enjoyed some of the best years of her life – and, together, they proved that age is just a number. Betty is also survived by her three sons George Franks III (Melissa Cooperson) of Williamsport, MD, Ray Franks of Denton, TX, and Peter G. Franks, AIA (Michelle) of Hastings, IA, stepdaughters Jenny Newell Bouchard of Greenland, NH and Beth Newell (Jon Thompson) of Shutesbury, MA. Other survivors include grandchildren Abby Melvin, Melissa Albizati, Eleanor Elizabeth Franks, and George Wyatt Franks. Her great grandsons are Ethan, Henry, and Jack Melvin and Liam Albizati.
As Betty wished, there will be no funeral or public memorial service.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Friends of the Island Branch Library (Anna Maria Island, Holmes Beach, Florida) are encouraged.
