Gaynor Williams Frankfort

Born in South Wales, Gaynor immigrated to the United States with her husband, Abdul, who was Kurdish. When he passed away at an early age, she demonstrated remarkable strength by bravely raising three children as a single mother in her adopted homeland with the help and support of her new community, especially the Haseley family. Old world resiliency was her ethos with catch phrases like, “pick yourself up and dust yourself off” and “listen and share.” With limited resources but boundless determination, she created an abundant life filled with opportunity and joy for her family.

A natural nurturer, Gaynor was a second mother to many and was always surrounded by children. She was a combination of Maria Montessori, Kool-Aid Mom, the Dancing Queen and “Sugar Gran.” Few would have guessed that the gentle Welsh girl possessed such formidable inner strength, which she demonstrated both in her brave battle with cancer and as an advocate for her children and “adopted” children, the Salamehs.

Thirty years ago, Gaynor married Hans Frankfort, a Dutch-Indonesian, and beautifully merged their already close families. Together, they traveled the world extensively, visiting family and embracing new adventures across the globe.

Gaynor is survived by her loving husband, Hans Frankfort; her children Stephen (Kathleen), Tania (Jeff), and Andrea (Steve); her two sisters (Hazel, June); numerous nieces and nephews but especially Sheila who was like a sister; and Hans’ four children - Mary (Drue), Ed (Stacy), Susan and Patrick. Between them, Hans and Gaynor cherished 19 grandchildren, with Gaynor's biological grandchildren being Jordan, Skylar, Connor, Macey, Sammey, Marlowe, Dylan, and Cole. She also adored Hans’ grandchildren - Chris, William, Bryan, David, Sarah Kate, Steven, Alex, Nicolas, Tori, David, and Gracie - and great grandchild, Lola.

We want to thank the caregivers who loved her so much and who are continuing to care for Hans.

Her optimism, warmth, and unwavering love will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the American Cancer Society. https://donate.cancer.org/g/jezusnqzeuvmcayqqgvojfhe/directed

Services will be at Christ Church, 120 E. Edenton Street, in Raleigh on June 7, 3:00 p.m. A celebration of her life will follow at 124 Perquimans Drive.

Gaynor was a fashionista. While she certainly wore her share of black, later in life, she wore bright colors, thought lipstick was a must, always wore a necklace (typically pearls), wore bright nail polish, and noticed good shoes. If you are celebrating with us, you have freedom to wear what you like but maybe take an extra minute to spice it up for her.

She did it her way!

Brown-Wynne, 300 Saint Mary's St., Raleigh, is serving the Frankfort family.