Annie Mae Douglas was born in Memphis, Tennessee on May 31, 1945. Known by her family and friends as “Ann,” she was the daughter of the late Morris and Willie Ann Douglas. God called Ann home to glory on October 12, 2024.

Ann was the loving wife of Russell Franks, and sister to Freddie Mae, Beatrice, Morris “Sonny” Jr., Louisa, Leon, Monzel, Gloria, Bonnie,. who all preceded her in death; she leaves to mourn her remaining siblings, Virginia Elston, James Douglas Willie Douglas. 

Ann also leaves a large family to continue her legacy by way of her children and grandchildren. Carrying fond memories to cherish are her beloved sons, Eric Douglas , Antonio Douglas, and Teddie Douglas, and stepson Ronnie Franks; her granddaughter’s Teja Douglas, Sade Douglas, Akeish Douglas, Brianna Douglas, Ashley Douglas, and Brittney Douglas; her grandsons Antonio Douglas, Jr., Teddie Douglas, Jr., Tyson Douglas, Damarion Banks, and Thobias Douglas; and her great-grandchildren Andrew Anderson Jr., Lucien Davis, Jamila Douglas and Avani Davis.

Ann and her siblings grew up in Memphis, the birthplace of the blues, on Beale Street. Ann loved listening to music and guests in her home knew she often kept her radio playing R&B music throughout the day. Ann’s brother, Sunny, sought a more prosperous life for him, his mother, and his family, and chose to serve in the U.S. Military. After discharge from the army, he moved his family to Cleveland, OH, seeking better opportunities. Ann attended East High School and gave her life to Christ at an early age. 

After graduating from high school, Ann worked as a dietician and was known to be a dedicated worker and amazing cook. Ann met her husband Russel in her twenties, at a party at the dance hall on 79th Street in Cleveland in the 1960’s; they fell in love and raised a family with love and devotion. Ann was one the best cooks in her family and is known for making outstanding macaroni-and-cheese. She enjoyed watching football every Sunday after church,and hosting holiday dinners at her home, where she made anyone, and everyone feel welcome. Later in her career, Ann became a teacher at a daycare center; Ann’s love of children was a blessing to her family and the many children she cared for. She enjoyed traveling around the world with her family and friends, line dancing with her girlfriends every Thursday, and attending services at Bethany Christian Church where she was a member for many years before she passed.