Ed and IdeIla Franklin in Huntsville, Alabama. He was the fourth of eight
children; Rev. George, Charles, Thomas, Arthur, Julia Franklin whom all
preceded him in death.
He lost his Mom at a young age. Later, his Dad married Bertha Holman
(deceased). They raised 16 children; Freddie, Sr., James and Alvie Lee
whom all preceded him in death.
He attended Madison school in Alabama. He worked on the farm with his
Dad. In the 1950's, he moved to Cleveland, Ohio. He accepted Christ at a
young age. He was baptized and became a member of New Light Baptist
Church under the leadership of Pastor Weathersby. He sang in the church
choir. He also sang gospel songs in a Quartet.
He worked at White Motor, Inc. for 15+ years until the company moved out
of Cleveland, Ohio. He was hired at the Ohio Aluminum Industries, Inc.
as a machinist and was promoted to a Foreman position. He was awarded a
"Perfect Attendance" Award for "no call-off" calls for seven years. He was
the only employee in the company nationally that had received this award.
He retired from Ohio Aluminum after 30 years of service.
He met and married the love of his life Louise Blackmon and they raised
seven children together.
He enjoyed fishing, hunting and family gatherings during the holidays. He
faithfully traveled south to his hometown for many years to visit his family.
He loved to sing and listen to gospel music. One of his favorite songs was
"Sitting on the Dock of the Bay" by Otis Redding. He loved to watch
sports; boxing and football. He also loved to work on cars. He was a very
caring person and always willing to help others in need.
Later, he married Mildred Pace who preceded him in death.
He leaves to mourn four sons; Jerry, Michael in Cleveland, OH; William
C., Jr. (Angela) in Maple Hts., Gregory in Florida; three daughters; Vanessa
Rashad, Renee Johnson and Linda Hemingway, all in Cleveland, OH; five
sisters: Sarah Mae Gray, Addie Pearl Brown in Cleveland, OH; Georgia Mae
Erskine (Jessie), Minnie Rainey and Mattie Miller in Huntsville, Alabama;
two Brothers; Willie Holman; Virgus Holman (Leola), of Huntsville,
Alabama; twenty-two Grandchildren; twenty-four Great Grandchildren;
and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and loved ones
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.18