Ralph was born on November 9, 1936, in Brooksville, Florida, to William and Julia Franklin.
He was a member of the United States Marine Corp and served with the detachment assigned to the USS Iowa. After his Military service years, he became a member of the Tampa Fire Department where he was known as “Ben” before retiring in 1983. After retirement from TFD, he went on to work for several years as a Park Ranger with Hillsborough County Parks and Recreation.
Ralph was predeceased by his wife of 54-years Dorothy and his son Robert. He is survived by his Son Ralph Jr of Lutz, Florida and Grandson William of Cocoa, Florida, along with many Nieces and Nephews.
In lieu of flowers the family suggest a donation in Ben Franklin’s memory to the Tampa Firefighters Museum at 720 E. Zack Street, Tampa, FL 33602. Donations may also be completed using this link. https://tinyurl.com/RBFranklin
