Franklin was born in Pentwater, Michigan on May 30, 1917, the son of William and Rosie Hepworth. He resided in Pentwater until moving to Bancroft at age 22 where he met Elveretta M. McColley and they were married on November 23, 1941.

Franklin served in the United States Army during World War II as a first lieutenant commander of a tank battalion in the 51st armored division. He received the purple heart and silver star with clusters for his service rendered to his country.

Franklin was both a school teacher and a pastor. He taught for thirty-six years, thirty of them in the Perry school system. He pastored a number of small churches before accepting the call to the First Baptist Church of Bancroft where he served the Lord and his flock for twenty years. During the summer months he enjoyed gardening and was well known at the Owosso Farmer's Market.

Franklin is survived by his loving wife of sixty-seven years, Elveretta May Hepworth; son Rev. Henry (Diane) of Alberta Canada, daughter Fran (Eddie) Haynes of Corunna, daughter Lila (Rev. Mark) Hutchins of Bancroft, son Rev. Jon (Holly) of Standish, son Rev. David (Sheri) of Auburn Hills; thirty-three grandchildren; forty-four great-grandchildren; two brothers and four sisters.

He was preceded in death by his parents, four sisters, six brothers, and three sons: William, Chet, and Rev. Robert Hepworth. Memorials may be made to the family or to the First Baptist Church of Bancroft. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.watkinsfuneralhomes.com.