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In Loving Memory of Simone Janice Aiken Simone Janice Aiken entered eternal rest on June 29, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family and the comforting presence of her Creator. On December 1, 1959, Simone Janice Aiken was born to Reverend Hiawatha Truly Franks and Thelma Louise Franks in Lockhart, Texas. She was the ninth beloved child to this union. At a young age, Simone accepted Christ into her life, setting the foundation for a lifetime defined by unwavering faith, grace, and compassion. Her love for God guided everything she did, and her family adored her deeply for the light and strength she brought into their lives. Simone attended Lockhart High School from 1974 to 1976, and Columbus High School from 1977 to 1979. During her sophomore year, she served as class vice president, demonstrating early leadership and a commitment to excellence. A gifted athlete, she competed in women’s track and field as a district qualifier in the 400- and 800-meter relays. She was also a talented musician, playing the clarinet in the Columbus High School Sweepstakes Band. Simone went on to attend Blinn college and the University of Texas at Austin, earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. On July 4, 1980, Simone married Christopher Lamar Aiken, and they built a life that lasted 45 years together. To this union, five children were born. Simone was a loving mother to Andrea Simone Aiken, Christopher Lamar Aiken Jr., Briana Nichole Teall (Dustin), Danielle Cherice Aiken, and Zacharias Scott Aiken. She was also a proud grandmother to Makayla Elise McNeil-Aiken, Cameron Lamar Aiken, Maddex Xavier Teall, and eagerly awaited the birth of Maddex’s baby brother, (due December 5, 2025). To her many nieces, nephews, siblings, cousins, and friends, Simone was a source of warmth, laughter, strength, and love. She dedicated 38 years to nursing, first as a Licensed Vocational Nurse and later as a Registered Nurse. Her nursing career took her to several hospitals in Austin, Texas, including Seton Medical Center and Dell Children’s Hospital, and later concluded at Thrive Skilled Pediatric Care. She cared for her patients with deep compassion, offering them both dignity and heartfelt kindness. Simone also served God and her community with deep devotion. She was the Assistant Pastor at Resurrection Life Church for nine years, led the women’s jail ministry in Lockhart for seven years, and volunteered as a chaplain with the Lockhart Responders, supporting police officers, sheriffs, firefighters, and EMS personnel. She further gave her time to Victim Assistance Services, the church’s food pantry, and various outreach ministries. Her ministry and service left a lasting impact on all who knew her. Simone is now reunited in Heaven with her parents, Reverend Hiawatha Truly Franks and Thelma Louise Franks, her sister Gwendolyn F. Franks McDonald, and her brothers Paul W. Franks Sr. and Hiawatha C. Franks Sr., along with her beloved grandparents. She is survived by her sisters Estella L. Franks Elam (Marvin), D’vorah Schott (James), Truly Heiskell, Lora L. Hardway (Lawrence), and her brothers Jett M. Franks Sr. and Charles B. Franks (Doris), along with a host of extended family and friends who will continue to honor her memory. Simone lived as a true reflection of God’s love. She was gentle in her words, kind in her actions, and steadfast in her faith. Her prayers comforted many, and her devotion inspired all who knew her. While we grieve her absence, we rejoice in knowing she is at peace, resting in the arms of the Lord. “Well done, good and faithful servant.” - Matthew 25:23

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Simone Janice Aiken

December 1, 1959 - June 29, 2025