Bess Laird Franklin

Bess Laird Franklin wife and mother went on to be with the Lord, Saturday evening November 2, 2019.

Bess was born in Ekalaka, Montana on February 21, 1934 to Frank and Margaret (Georgie) Laird. She was raised on the Laird ranch which is still operated by her brother, Erlend. Bess married Kim S. Potter in 1954 and later divorced. She married Gary Franklin in 1976 and they resided in Kalispell for many years. Starting in 1994, they owned and operated the Welcome Travelers Motel in Laurel until they retired in 2010. They moved into their new home and have resided there since. Bess is survived by her husband Gary of 43 years; son Ken (Stephanie) of Laurel Montana; son Dirk of Little Rock, Arkansas; and numerous grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Cremation has taken place and burial will take place at Beaver Lodge Cemetery at a later date.