John Franklin

John Burr Franklin, lovingly known as “Papa John” and “Red” was born on February 17th, 1933, in Huntsville, Alabama. John died on his 90th Birthday, February 17, 2023, which was a main goal of these last few years. John was surrounded by his son Wes and daughter-n-law Kay-Lee along with his 5 grandchildren and their partners in Ontario, Canada. John was preceded in death by his beloved wife and “Shug” of 61 years, Betty Jane Wright Franklin in October 2021.

John is survived by his loving children Wes and daughter-in-law Kay-Lee Franklin, daughter Katina Franklin, son Randy Franklin and his younger sister Betty Jo Akin. Papa John will be greatly missed by his doting and admiring grandchildren Lexa (Sam), Justin (Emma), Ashtyn (Michael), Peyton Franklin and Sean Reza (Kirstie).

John was a wonderful and loving husband, father, grandfather, and father-in-law. He quickly became Papa John to whomever he met and will be fondly remembered for his brilliant mind and his countless stories where he never missed a date or any detail whether it happened yesterday or 60 years ago. His positive attitude and progressive values were inclusive of our changing world; he was a renaissance man. His clarity and brilliance of mind never ceased to amaze us till his very last breath.

He will be warmly remembered for his southern charm, the twinkle in his eye, his kindness to everyone and anyone, his fairness, loyalty, honesty and his big strong hugs and incredibly firm handshake. John was a devoted and tireless Auburn University fan, Class of 1960, till his last days… “Go War Eagle!”

Papa John could always be counted on to offer a helping hand, a ride, and would drive across international borders for those in need.

John was a devout church member at Chapel Hill United Methodist Church, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Oakwood Baptist Church in Chattanooga, Tennessee and Bay Harbour United Methodist Church in League City, Texas.

The family would like to thank the staff at South Lake Hospital Cardiac floor and Cardiac Intensive Care Unit for their unwavering support, care and kindness which they showed Papa John and our family during his final week.

He will be greatly missed by so many.

In lieu of flowers please donate to John and Betty’s favourite organization – St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.

www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.html

A Funeral Service will be held on Friday, March 3, 2023 at 11 am at Thompson Funeral, 530 Industrial Parkway South, Aurora, ON L4G 6W8. Interment to follow at Aurora Cemetery.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.ThompsonFH-Aurora.com for the Franklin family.