Thedrick Joe Franklin was born on February 12, 1962, in Drew County, Arkansas to Pearlie Franklin and Thedrick J. Daniels. He graduated from Monticello High School in 1980. He went on to graduate Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Mathematics and Physics from the University of Arkansas at Monticello in 1984. He extended his academic career by obtaining his Master of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from Louisiana Tech University in 1986.
Thedrick began his professional career in Fort Worth, TX at General Dynamics, which later became Lockheed Martin. He worked from 1986-1995 as a Systems Engineer. He was selected for and wrote the winning proposal for the F-22 Fighter Electronic Warfare Subsystem, for which he received the Lockheed Outstanding Engineering Award. In 1996, he joined Motorola as a Senior Project Engineering Manager. Most recently he was employed by American Airlines as a Manager of Applications until 2020.
Thedrick was an active member of the Historic Allen Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church where he was a faithful member, percussionist, steward, financial secretary, and an avid participant in the Men’s Ministry. He volunteered selflessly and tirelessly in his community. He served students at Tarrant County College as an Adjunct Professor of Mathematics. He also served as an active member of the Crowley Independent School Board as a trustee from 2012-2017.
During his early years, he professed his Christian faith and joined Pilgrim Rest A.M.E Church in Monticello, Arkansas. Upon moving to Fort Worth, he joined the Historic Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church. He was a faithful and humble servant of God.
Thedrick united in holy matrimony to his high school sweetheart, Luwanda Johnson Franklin, on July 13, 1985 in Monticello, Arkansas. They later moved to Fort Worth, TX in 1986. They were married for 34 years as a devoted couple. Luwanda is the love of his life! They have three children: Jennifer, Thedrick II (T.J.), and Jessica.
He was predeceased by his father, Thedrick J. Daniels; his stepfather, Willie J. Arrington; his paternal grandmother, Willie Mae Toatley; and his paternal great grandmother, Rubie Edwards.
Thedrick leaves to cherish his loving memory his wife of 34 years, Luwanda Franklin; a daughter, Jennifer Franklin of Fort Worth; a son, Thedrick II (T.J.) (Alisa) of Arlington, TX; and a daughter, Jessica Franklin of Fort Worth. Two grandchildren: Kayla and Jacob Franklin of Fort Worth; his loving mother, Pearlie Arrington of Monticello, AR; maternal grandmother, Claudie Handley of Monticello, AR; Many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends; and a very special sister and brother-in-law, Vivian and Charles Lincoln of Fort Worth, TX.
