Mrs. Jessie Lee Franks, Irby, youngest daughter of Arthur and Bessie Franks, was born December 5, 1929, in Charlotte, North Carolina. She peacefully departed this life on May 15, 2025, at age 95, at Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center.

After graduating from Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, Jessie followed her sister Florence "Tena" Doby, attending Wood Morgan Beauty School and receiving her degree in cosmetology. She opened Irby's Salon of Beauty on McDowell Street, successfully operating it for nearly 30 years, with over 21 operators working within her company over this time period. Her salon famously participated in Johnson C. Smith's Homecoming parades, often winning best float. Jessie later moved her salon closer to home, continuing her passion until her retirement at age 88.

A dedicated lifelong member of First Baptist Church-West, Jessie recently received recognition for her longstanding membership. She volunteered actively with Friendship Trays and organized popular fashion shows at church.

Bowling was another of Jessie's passions, introduced by her husband David. She excelled at the sport, becoming the first black female inducted into the Carolina All-Star Bowling Association (CASBA). Despite offers to go professional, Jessie chose to remain local, later sponsoring leagues and tournaments.

Above all, Jessie was a nurturing mother and community trailblazer. She instilled values of love, patience, hard work, and fashion flair in her family, and tirelessly provided food and clothing for Charlotte's homeless for over two decades. '

Jessie was preceded in death by her parents; siblings, Arthur Franks, Jr., Florence "Tena" Doby, and Maxwell "Sweet Pea" Franks; sons, Nathaniel D. Davis, Anthony B. Davis, Reginald G. Irby; daughter, Johnnie Belinda "Lynn" Telfair; son-in-law, Willie Telfair; and daughter-in-law, Patricia G. Davis.

She leaves cherished memories to her devoted husband of 70 years, David Irby; daughters, Beverly Irby-Harrell (John) and Regina Irby Jordan (Alphonso); step-daughter, Wanda Binns (Leon) of Baltimore, MD; daughters-in-law, Lillie Ann Davis and Christine C. Irby; adopted brother, Herbert McCain; along with numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, special nieces, nephews, cousins, and many loyal friends.

Jessie's favorite saying "Be good to yourself", will remain with us, echoing a life beautifully lived and deeply loved.