Stephen Christopher Franklin

December 30, 1969 – August 6, 2025

It is with heavy hearts and deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Stephen Christopher Franklin, who left this world far too soon on August 6, 2025, at the age of 55. Born on December 30, 1969, in Peoria, Illinois, Stephen was a man whose presence filled every room with laughter, warmth, and undeniable charm.

Stephen was the beloved son of the late Thomas and Janice Franklin, brother to the late Scott Franklin and his great-grandmother Norene Derry. Though their absence is deeply felt, we take comfort in knowing they are now reunited in peace.

His legacy lives on in the lives of those he cherished most: his devoted wife, Beatriz Franklin, his loving daughter Hailey Fabik and her husband Steven, and the two greatest joys of his life—his granddaughters Presley and Paisley Fabik. He is also survived by his brothers—Shawn (with his wife, Lindsay) and Matt (with his wife, Elizabeth)—as well as nieces and nephews Lauren, Sam, Grayson, Emelynne, and Kaitlyn Franklin; his uncle Randy Hendrickson; his aunt Rebecca Ross; and his uncle Jack Franklin.

Stephen earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from the University of Phoenix and applied that knowledge with passion and perseverance throughout his career. As an Area Sales Manager with DR Horton, and a driven entrepreneur, he was known for his leadership, dedication, and unwavering work ethic.

But Stephen was so much more than his career. He was a true original—a man of wit, sarcasm, and quick humor that kept everyone around him laughing. He had a soft spot for animals, especially dogs, and an abiding love for the outdoors, whether gardening in the sun or soaking in the beauty of wildlife and nature. He was also a keen investor, always intrigued by the rhythm of the stock market and the potential of real estate.

Stephen was a man of many passions—80s and 90s rock music, a good football game (Go Dolphins!), baseball (Go Cardinals!), and a serious obsession with Diet Coke. He had an unmatched sweet tooth, a love for candy, cookies, burgers, and pizza, and an even greater love for time spent surrounded by family and friends.

He will be remembered for his unwavering love, his infectious laughter, and his ability to make anyone feel like family. He made life brighter and fuller for everyone who had the honor of knowing him. He was and will remain a man who focused on a being an incredible husband, father and provider.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, August 22 at 5:00 PM at Stonebriar Funeral Home and Cremation Services. All who knew and loved Stephen are welcome to attend and share in honoring his remarkable life.

Flowers may be sent to the Celebration of Life service or to 1000 Homestead Lane, Royse City, TX, 75189. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Stephen’s memory to the Heber Springs Humane Society at heberspringshumanesociety.com, supporting his lifelong love of animals.

Stephen’s light, laughter, and love will echo in our hearts forever.