Mr. Benjamin Franklin King III passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, April 13, 2018. Franklin was born in Nashville, Tennessee on August 9, 1928. His family moved to Mobile when he was a young boy. In the fall of 1942, he met and developed a friendship with Lois Anne Jones. Their friendship developed into a loving relationship and they were married in November, 1950. Lois Anne was truly the love of his life and they enjoyed a wonderful marriage of 63 years lasting until her death in 2013. Franklin carried on bravely though he missed Lois Anne terribly for his remaining years. Franklin was a member of the 1945 Graduating class of Murphy High School. He remained active in the affairs of the class until his death. He was a Ramblin Wreck from Georgia Tech where he graduated in 1950. He maintained close ties to his Alma Mater through the years and was blessed to have a dear young friend, Trevor Boehm, who would take him to Tech football viewing parties whenever possible. After college, Franklin entered the military and served in the U.S. Airforce. Upon returning to Mobile, he began his career at the First National Bank, which lasted for 37 years. Franklin was an avid golfer and along with many good friends, played golf literally around the world. He loved this city and was president of no less than 10 civic organizations during his lifetime. He loved Mardi Gras and was member of several mystic organizations. Right alongside his love of Lois Anne was his love for the First Baptist Church. His Church was uppermost in his mind, even up to the day he died. Franklin was a wonderful father, husband and family man. He was a true southern Gentleman. He leaves a multitude of family and friends to cherish his memory. Franklin was preceded in death by his parents, Benjamin Franklin King, Jr. and Katherine Herbert King. His wife Lois Anne Jones King and a sister, Dorothy King Terrell. He is survived by his daughter, Kathy Whitinger Thompson (Bobby) and son Dr. Benjamin Franklin King IV. Daughter –in-law Jo Ann Graffeo King. Grandchildren Olivia Whitinger Newton (Chase), George Whitinger, Dr. Kelsey King, Tyler King and Mary Franklin King. Two great grandchildren Katherine and Ava Newton. One sister Olivia King Crawford. Nieces and nephews Frank Groom Terrell (Rosie), Jean Terrell Recaborde (Alain), Helen Terrell Whiting (Robert), Conan King Terrell (Mary Ann), Hill Crawford (Sylvia), David Crawford (Lindsey), Curry Bedsole Adams (Gary) and Travis Massey Bedsole (Susan). Also his dear friend Ann Marie Terry. A memorial service will be held at First Baptist Church, 806 Government Street, at Noon on Friday April 20, 2018. A celebration of his life will be held immediately following the church service at Cotton Hall. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the First Baptist Church or to The Historical Restoration Society, PO Box 1566, Mobile, Al 36633.
