Submitted by the Family

AUSTIN, TEXAS — Susan Wakefield Franks, age 75, was born on April 27, 1948, to Vivian Julia Rosenquist and Charles William Wakefield, in Houston, Texas. Susan resided in Bastrop, Texas, with her daughter Keely Bauler, and great-granddaughter Isabella Bauler. Susan was an indomitable figure whose resourcefulness carried her through many hardships in life. Despite the hardships she faced, Susan was a vivacious friend, passionate mother and grandmother and driven businesswoman.

Known by many as the woman who nurtured The Original Roundtop Antiques Fair to become one of the largest antiques fairs in the nation, owning and operating Roundtop was only a part of her legacy. Prior to this, Susan and her late husband “Bo” Quentin Jerald Franks traveled the world with Willie Nelson & Family as Willie’s original concert merchandisers. Susan’s passion for Western and Native American culture often found her in New Mexico, where she hosted many antique and gun shows throughout the years.

While working at such a high level required, Susan was known to be “wise as a serpent,” but this never stopped her from being “kind as a dove.” Susan had a compassionate nature which she shared with many in need over the years, often providing consistent work and support for the people who came into her life. Susan’s place in the community will certainly be missed.

Susan passed away in her home on September 6, 2023, and is survived by her loving daughter, Keely Bauler, her stepsons, John Franks and James Franks, her grandchildren, Victoria Herrera, Georgia Bauler, Quen Franks, Ethan Franks, Daniel Franks, Andrea Lynch and Austin Franks, and her great-grandchildren, Isabella Bauler, “Bo” Benjamin Flora, Abigail Herrera, Fiona Franks and Rainier Franks.

A funeral service and interment took place on Friday, September 15, 2023, in Austin. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared for the Franks family at www.cookwaldenfuneralhome.com.