Frank Stokes Jr.'s Obituary
FRANK STOKES JR. was born on March 12, 1955, in Vaughan, Mississippi, to Frank Stokes Sr. and the late Ida Bell Pickett-Stokes. He was the seventh of their children and was raised in Yazoo County, Mississippi, where he received his early education through the Yazoo County School System. At an early age, Frank accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior, establishing a foundation of faith that remained with him throughout his life.
In 1970, Frank left Mississippi to attend Job Corps in Texas. He later earned his certification in Brick Masonry at Saint Paul Technical College in Saint Paul, Minnesota. Gifted with exceptional talent and skill, Frank became a highly respected brick mason whose craftmanship spoke for itself. Through his trade, he built not only structures, but also a reputation marked by dedication, hard work, and excellence. He continued working in the profession he loved until retiring at the age of 70.
Frank deeply valued family and the relationship he built throughout his life. He was the proud father of six children and cherished the bond he shared with each of them. In 1980, he married Diane Stokes, and together they built a life marked by love, strength, shared experiences, and unwavering devotion to family.
Frank found his greatest joy outside of work in the company of those he loved most.
Whether through laughter, conversation, storytelling or simply being present, he created meaningful memories that will forever remain in the hearts of his family and friends. His presence brought comfort, wisdom, and strength to many who knew him.
On Friday, May 8, 2026, Frank peacefully transitioned at his home in Saint Paul, Minnesota.
He was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Ida Bell Pickett-Stokes.
Frank leaves to cherish his precious memories: his devoted wife, Diane Stokes; his father, Frank Stokes, Sr.; his children, Akissi Bell, Wendolyn Hunter (William), Terrance Stokes (Alicia), Tyshanna Stokes (Donal), Tamara Stokes, and Drake Stokes; eight grandchildren; six great grandchildren; four brothers, William Stokes, Otha Stokes, Rufus Stokes, and Davis Stiffic; seven sisters, Mary Davis, Ethel Clark, Dorothy Kyles, Shirley Bell, Sandra O'Quinn (Kelvin), Vanessa Harris, and Angie Lewis (Wayne); a special cousin, Marilyn Jones; and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, extended relatives, and dear friends.
Though Frank is no longer with us physically, the love he shared, the lessons he taught, and the memories he created will continue to live on forever in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
What’s your fondest memory of Frank?
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