Emma Frances “Fran” Herring took her last breath on earth and her first breath in Heaven on May 21, 2023. Born on March 8, 1937 in Cullman County, Alabama, the third child of King Soloman “Sol” Ford and Eunice Inez (Bradley) Ford.
She spent her childhood and early adult life in Cullman County. Later, moving to Jefferson County where she met and married William Franklin Holmes SR. (Gordon). Together they had one son, William who was her pride and joy. The last few years have been spent living with William and his family. She absolutely loved taking the long trips to visit her great-grandchildren, one of which was named after her.
She formerly went by Fran but was so proud of her great-grandchild that she started going by Emma for the last three years. Gardening, canning and sewing were among her favorite hobbies, but what she loved most was cleaning! Her love for Jesus and her Christian faith was unmatched. Fran was preceded in death by her parents, King Soloman “Sol” Ford and Eunice Inez Bradley Ford; sisters, Irene Ford, Florene Ford and Venice Shurette; brother, Charles Ford; spouses, William Franklin “Gordon” Holmes Sr. and Charles D. Herring.
She leaves behind her son, William Franklin Holmes Jr. (Tammy/best friend) grandchildren, Laura Holmes Franklin (Cody) and Lee Holmes; two great grandchildren, Lacy and Emma Franklin; sisters, Faye Flanagan (Bill) and Marie Forsberg; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends who absolutely loved and adored her.
A visitation for Emma will be held Wednesday, May 24, 2023 from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. at Ridout’s Gardendale Chapel, 2029 Decatur Highway, Gardendale, AL 35071. A funeral service will occur Thursday, May 25, 2023 at 11 a.m. at Ridout’s Gardendale Chapel.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.ridoutsgardendalechapel.com for the Herring family.
