Linda Franell May

Linda Franell May passed away Sunday, October 5, 2014, at her home surrounded by her family. Franell went home to be with the Lord after a brief but inspirational fight with cancer.

A celebration of life will be held at 3 p.m. Friday in Biggers Funeral Chapel.

The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, memorial gifts be made to MD Anderson Cancer Research Center or the charity of your choosing.

Franell was born September 4, 1947, to Irwin M. and Francis C. Ellis and raised in Fort Worth. As an Air Force “brat,” she traveled the world before graduating from Fort Worth Eastern Hills High School in 1965, then the University of North Texas in 1969. In the same year she married the love of her life, Rick. She spent four years teaching elementary school, before becoming a dedicated mother in 1972.

She was the foundation of a rock-solid family. Her family was her most prized possession and her love will forever live within them. She developed her three boys (husband and two sons) into strong, loving, compassionate men and fathers. She treated her daughters-in-law as her own and held a special relationship with each of them. Known as “Birdie” to her grandsons, she was never satisfied that she had done enough for them. She considered them all true blessings and never realized how much they are a product of her love, devotion and commitment to her family.

She spent her life making those around her happy without considering her own pleasures. She truly enjoyed God’s creatures and created a safe haven for many a migrating bird. Her flower gardens were always awesome displays of God’s beauty. Franell was an elegant host and master of the kitchen who knew so many ways to show her love to family and friends.

Franell was a devoted believer who gladly shared her love of God with anyone who would listen. Her unlimited joy was a window to God’s love. Her grace, dignity and love will surely be missed.

Franell is survived by her mother, Francis Camilla Ellis; her loving husband, Rick; son, Trae with his wife, Lyndie, and their son, Fisher; son, Case, with his wife, Allison, and their sons, Connor, Grant and Owen; and her beloved pets, domestic and wild.