Upon graduation from high school, Lois moved to Greenville, SC to attend Bob Jones University as an Elementary Education major. After taking a year off from her studies, she returned to major in Christian Education. During her junior year (the spring of 1963), she met her future husband. She and Bob dated for two years before getting married. Lois and Bob began working for Bob Jones University in 1965 and retired after serving for more than 40 years.
Lois was a devoted follower of Jesus and she loved music, reading, puzzles, sewing, watching golf, and the Atlanta Braves. She was an incredible baker and was known by the family as making unbeatable cinnamon rolls and blueberry pie. She had an amazing work ethic and excelled at keeping her busy house organized and tidy. Most importantly, Lois consistently spent time studying her Bible and praying for others. She was a godly woman that her family loved and hoped to model.
Lois used her gifts to bless many others. Part of her weekly routine was to pull her calendar to determine who she could encourage with a card, whether for a birthday, anniversary, or holiday. She was an excellent seamstress. Whether handling last minute alterations for weddings or making special dresses for her grandchildren, everything was done with excellence and great attention to detail. She also spent the past ten years serving regularly at the Miracle Hill Shepherd’s Gate shelter for women where she organized donated clothes so the residents could easily find what they needed.
Lois is survived by her loving husband of 53 years, Robert “Bob” Wendell Franklin; sons: Darrell Franklin (Christine), Kevin Franklin (Julie), and Eric Franklin (Sherilyn); daughter, Melody Franklin McGinnis (Steven); ten grandchildren; sister, Marilyn Burrow (Jerry); and brother, Rowland Byerly.
The family will receive friends and loved ones beginning 9:30 AM Saturday, April 27, 2019 at Faith Baptist Church, 500 W. Lee Rd., Taylors, SC 29687. The funeral service will begin 11:00 AM at Faith Baptist Church immediately following the time of visitation. A private family meal and graveside service will be at Graceland East Memorial Park in Simpsonville, SC following the funeral.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Miracle Hill or to Bob Jones University for student aid.
Online condolences may be left at www.mackeymortuary.com. Arrangements by Mackey Funerals and Cremations at Century Drive.
