Francis "Fran" Elizabeth Travis

Fran Kulick Travis passed away on Monday, November 17, after a long illness with dementia. She was 81 years old.

Born in Stamford, Connecticut to Sarah and Paul Kulick, Fran grew up in Savannah, Georgia before moving to Texas as a teenager. She graduated from the University of Texas at Austin, forming lifelong friendships and strengthening the commitment to community service instilled by her parents. Her father’s work with Jewish Federations in Connecticut, Georgia, and Texas deeply shaped her values and sense of responsibility to others.

After college, Fran made Georgia her home where she met and married Bob Travis.  They lived for many years in Lilburn, where their children were born, and later in Roswell. These communities became the backdrop for Fran’s family life, career, and decades of civic engagement.

From a young age, Fran was drawn to leadership and service. In high school, she was extremely active in B’nai B’rith Girls (BBG), and she carried that passion forward throughout her life. She became a dedicated member of the National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) and ultimately served as Chair of its Advocacy Committee. In that role, Fran spent countless days at the Georgia State Capitol lobbying for issues she believed in—including women’s rights, education, and social justice. She was known as a progressive and passionate voice, and she took great pride in her long-standing relationship with Congressman John Lewis, whom she deeply admired.

Professionally, Fran was a creative and entrepreneurial spirit. She ran a successful tchotchke business selling items to schools and sports organizations, taught at the Art Institute, and earlier in her career managed a retail clothing store. Her warmth, creativity, and ability to connect with people were at the heart of everything she did.

Fran was predeceased by her beloved husband, Bob Travis, and by their children, Scott and Julia, who both tragically died as young adults. She is survived by her brother, Gil Kulick, and his life partner, Anita Altman, who provided steadfast love and support. Fran also leaves behind an extended family of many dear friends who will remember her humor, generosity, and fierce dedication to justice and community.

Fran lived a life of purpose, conviction, and heart. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched, the students she taught, and the countless people she inspired through her advocacy.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the National Council of Jewish Women or the Dementia Society of America.