Diane Dillard Franks, age 76, of Louisville, Kentucky, formerly of the Guin and Winfield area, passed away peacefully at her residence on Monday, July 13, 2026.
Diane was born on September 26, 1949, to Floyd and Mildred Dillard in the Bluff community of Fayette County, Alabama. She attended Wayside School and graduated from Winfield High School in 1967. The place and people of her early years remained an important part of who she was throughout her life.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Willet Hardin, and her beloved son, Samuel Dean Franks.
Diane is survived by her devoted husband of 52 years, Steve Franks; her son, Jay S. Franks and his wife, Lynn; and her treasured grandchildren, Lydia, Abigail, and Everett Franks. She is also survived by her siblings, Floyd Dillard and his wife, Angi, Elaine Price, Lavonne Glover, and Shelia Nix, as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
Diane’s greatest joy was her family. She cherished the time she spent with those she loved, especially her grandchildren, who brought her immeasurable happiness and pride. She had a thoughtful and creative spirit and found joy in making the world around her more beautiful. Over the years, she loved remodeling and decorating her homes, always creating spaces that felt warm, welcoming, and uniquely her own.
She also enjoyed cooking and gardening, and she expressed her love for others in the many thoughtful ways she cared for them. Whether through a meal prepared, a home made beautiful, a garden tended, or simply time spent together, Diane had a special gift for making those around her feel loved.
She will be remembered for her devotion to her family, her creativity, her warmth, and the quiet strength she carried throughout her life. Her absence will be deeply felt, but the love she gave and the memories she created will remain forever in the hearts of those who knew her.
Funeral services for Diane will be held on Thursday, July 16th at 11:00 a.m. from the Bowen Funeral Home Chapel with burial to follow in the Spring Hill Cemetery. The visitation will be held on Thursday from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. service time at the funeral home.
Bowen Funeral Home of Winfield, AL serving the Franks family.
