Franks Family Genealogy & History

Mary Anne Franks is a distinguished American legal scholar, author, and activist, known for her expertise in First and Second Amendment law, criminal law, and law and technology. She holds the position of Eugene L. and Barbara A. Bernard Professor at George Washington University Law School and serves as the president of the Cyber Civil Rights Initiative. Her influential book, "The Cult of the Constitution," has received prestigious awards, and she has published a second book, "Fearless Speech." Franks has contributed significantly to the legal profession, particularly in civil rights and technology, and is recognized for her work with organizations addressing online harassment and social media impacts.

Mary Anne Franks was born in Indiana to Kang Tu-Kwei, a Taiwanese woman, and Jesse Franks, an American World War II veteran who passed away when she was two. Following her father's death, Franks spent her childhood in Pine Bluff, Arkansas.

Tommy Ray Franks, born on June 17, 1945, is a retired United States Army general known for his pivotal roles as Commander of the United States Central Command from 2000 to 2003. Franks led U.S. military operations in the Middle East, overseeing critical missions such as the 2001 invasion of Afghanistan and the 2003 Iraq invasion that resulted in the overthrow of Saddam Hussein. His leadership marked significant moments in military history, aligning with high-profile events like the response to the September 11 attacks.

Born in Wynnewood, Oklahoma, Tommy Ray Franks was adopted by Ray and Lorene "Pete" Parker Franks. He graduated from Robert E. Lee High School in Midland, Texas, sharing a school with First Lady Laura Bush.

Philip Franks, born on 2 February 1956 in London, is a renowned English actor and director best known for his roles in iconic TV series such as "The Darling Buds of May," where he played the tax inspector Cedric "Charley" Charlton, and "Heartbeat," as Sgt. Raymond Craddock. A versatile performer, Franks has guest-starred in popular shows like "Absolutely Fabulous" and "Midsomer Murders" and is a member of the Royal Shakespeare Company. His directorial prowess is evident in productions like "Kafka's Dick" and "The Duchess of Malfi." Franks has also contributed to BBC Radio with dramas like "A Cold Supper Behind Harrods," showcasing his broad range of talents across various media platforms.

Philip Franks is the only child of Patricia and Robert Franks. His father, Robert, served as a squadron leader pilot in the Royal Air Force. Franks's passion for theater was sparked at a young age when his parents took him to see productions like "The Tempest" and "Hamlet," fueling a lifelong love for the stage.

Feleipe Franks is an American professional football player, currently serving as a tight end for the Atlanta Falcons in the NFL. Initially a quarterback, Franks had a noteworthy college career at Florida and Arkansas, with highlights including a game-winning Hail Mary against Tennessee and breaking Arkansas' SEC losing streak. Transitioning from quarterback to tight end, Franks showcases his versatility, having been a four-star recruit and later joining the Falcons as an undrafted free agent in 2021. His athletic journey also includes being drafted by the Boston Red Sox in the 2019 MLB draft, although he ultimately continued his football career.