Faye Lou Franklin
December 28, 1930 – June 28, 2026
It is with heavy hearts and profound gratitude for a life well lived that we announce the passing of Faye Franklin, affectionately known throughout her life as Tootsie, Sister, Mom, Tai, Granny, Mamaw, and Ms. Faye. A beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, entrepreneur, and friend, Faye leaves behind a legacy built on love, hard work, faith, family, and service to others.
Born on December 28, 1930, in Austin, Texas, to Charlie and Margaret Lung, Faye's life was a testament to determination, resilience, and generosity. From an early age, she embodied the values of hard work, determination, compassion, and service that would define her life.
Alongside her beloved husband, Ronnie Franklin, Faye built one of Hempstead's most beloved landmarks, Cactus Jack's Restaurant. What began as a family business became a cornerstone of the community, drawing customers from across Texas who came not only for the food but for the warmth and hospitality that filled every corner of the restaurant. Cactus Jack's was more than a successful business; it was a gathering place where families celebrated milestones, friends met for meals, and travelers found a welcoming stop along their journey.
Faye was the heart and soul behind that success. Known to many as Ms. Faye, she greeted guests with a smile, remembered names and stories, and made everyone feel like family. Her passion for serving others and her commitment to excellence helped establish Cactus Jack's as a destination known throughout the region. Through decades of hard work, she and Ronnie built not only a thriving restaurant but a lasting legacy that remains woven into the history of Hempstead and Waller County.
Those who knew Faye will remember her generous spirit, strong work ethic, quick wit, and unwavering ability to make others feel welcome.
Above all, Faye cherished her family. She was a devoted mother to:
Charles "Butch" Franklin and wife Joel Franklin
Sheri Franklin Stice and husband Bill Stice
Daughter in law D'Ann Franklin, widow of the late Michael Franklin
She was the proud and loving grandmother of:
Erin Franklin Givens and husband Eric Givens
Ronnie Franklin
Charles "Bubba" Franklin and wife Laura Franklin
Michael "Mikey" Franklin and wife Nare Franklin
Melodi Franklin Peuvrelle and husband Chris Peuvrelle
Faye was also blessed with eleven great-grandchildren, each of whom brought immeasurable joy to her life.
Austin, Meghan, Elise, Ethan, Junior, Charles “Bubba”, Piper, Lincoln, Ryker, Mason, & Brayden
She is also survived by her beloved sister and brother-in-law, Kim and Nick Angelidis, along with numerous extended family members, dear friends, former employees, loyal customers, and all those fortunate enough to have known her.
Her impact on the lives of others cannot be measured. Faye's legacy lives on through the family she nurtured, the business she helped build, and the countless lives she touched through her kindness and hospitality. Though she will be deeply missed, her memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her.
Memorial Service
I lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Pine Island Baptist Church or the Waller Assistance and Restoration Ministries (WARM).
The family invites all who knew and loved Faye to join them in celebrating her extraordinary life on:
Saturday, August 8, 2026
Location:
Pine Island Baptist Church
36573 Brumlow Rd.
Pine Island, TX 77445
Visitation
12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Celebration of Life Service
1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Fellowship & Reception
2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Family and friends are encouraged to stay following the service to share memories, stories, and fellowship
"A life spent serving others is a life well lived."
"Her life was a blessing, her memory a treasure. She was loved beyond words and will be missed beyond measure."