Franklin Dewain Ballard

Franklin shared a remarkable 65-year marriage with his devoted wife, Carol A. Ballard. Together, they built a life full of love, faith, and family that became their proudest legacy.

He is survived by his beloved wife Carol and their five children and spouses, Kenneth and Missy Ballard, Rhonda and Mark Topping, Sandy and Nathan Payton, Brenda and Larry Rhodes and Kristan and David Ray, and a sister, Loretta Hall. Franklin’s joy multiplied through generations, as he became the proud grandfather of 34 grandchildren and great-grandfather to 25 great-grandchildren, each one a blessing he cherished deeply.

Franklin’s life was defined by his unwavering love for his family, his steady strength, and his kind heart. To know him was to know loyalty, humility, and a quiet wisdom that touched everyone around him. His memory will live on in the lives of those he raised, guided, and loved so completely.

The family finds comfort in knowing that while Franklin will be greatly missed, his spirit lives on in the countless lives he shaped and the love he left behind.

A visitation will be on Saturday, September 27, 2025 at 1 pm at Porter First Baptist Church with a funeral service to follow at 2 pm. In honor of Franklin's spirit, the family asks that the guests come in casual dress.

In Lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to The Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation at https://secure.qgiv.com/for/pulfibfou/