The son of the late Miss Elizabeth Franklin, SSG Franklin was born in Arcadia, FL on July 25, 1926. He was a United States Army Veteran of 22 years, who following retirement was employed with GNB Battery Co. He was preceded in death by his wife, Mrs. Annie Brown Franklin; a stepson, Michael Cody and five brothers.

Survivors include: his daughters, Gwendolyn Franklin Dedman and Betty Jean Cook; two step-daughters, Carolyn Lewis and Jacqueline Cody; four grandchildren, Melvin Cook, Jr. (Taquilla), Shauntivius N. Cook (Gwendolyn), Nikita D. Comstock and Akyra D. Dedman; five step-grandchildren, Darnell Lewis, DeAnna Lewis, Duane Lewis, Renee Loving and Dewayne Cody; eight great grandchildren and six step great grandchildren; a sister, Lizzie M. Thomas; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.