Noel Alexander Franklin

Good morning, family and friends.

We gather here today to celebrate the remarkable life of Noel Franklin, Snowy, TC, Gramps, a man who graced this world for 94 meaningful years. Born on October 5, 1930, in the serene community of Providence, St. Mary, Jamaica, Noel's life was a testament to love, faith, resilience, and dedication to his family.

In the early 1960s, Noel embarked on a journey to England, seeking opportunities to provide a better future for his family. With him went his unwavering love for his wife, Joyce, and their children, George, Albert, and Sylvia Franklin, who would later join him. Together, they navigated the challenges of life in a new country, finding strength in each other.

However, life presented a cruel twist when Joyce fell ill. With a heart full of love and a deep commitment to family, Noel returned to Jamaica in the late 1960s to care for her. Despite his tireless devotion, Joyce passed away at the tender age of 29, leaving an irreplaceable void. Through his grief, Noel displayed a resilience that became a hallmark of his character, dedicating himself to his children and the extended family that needed him.

Noel’s life was deeply rooted in his faith. He was a devout man who loved the Lord and found joy and solace in worship. His favorite song, “I Dreamed I Searched Heaven for You,” was a reflection of the deep, spiritual love he carried in his heart. His love for family extended beyond his children; he cared for his siblings, Icilda Williams and Altimon Franklin, when they were in need, embodying the true meaning of selflessness.

A cheerful and fun-loving man, Noel found joy in simple pleasures. He was a passionate domino player, often gathering with his friends for lively games filled with laughter and camaraderie. His love for nature was evident in his devotion to planting trees and cultivating crops, transforming every piece of land he touched into a testament to his nurturing spirit.

In the early 1980s, Noel and his family migrated to the United States, where new chapters unfolded. He experienced love again and married twice more, first to Almena Gayle-Franklin and later to Minnett Pedlar-Franlkin, who, along with his children, lovingly cared for him until his final days.

Noel was a hard worker and wherever he went he found gainful employment. During his years in England, he worked in a factory making electrical cords and wiring. During his years in the U.S.A., he worked in the laundry department. As a young man, he also worked in building construction.

Noel lived a full and rich life surrounded by the legacy of his love—his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who carry forward his memory and values. To those who knew him, Noel was a source of joy, humor, and wisdom. His sense of humor brightened the lives of many, and his stories and laughter will be cherished forever.

Today, as we bid farewell to Noel, let us not dwell on the sadness of his departure but celebrate the fullness of his life. He leaves to mourn his devoted wife, Minnett Franklin; his children Evon Franklin, Amanda Smellie, George Franklin, Albert Franklin and Sylvia Franklin; his sisters, Perlina Baxter and Icilda Williams; his brother Uriah Franklin; 33 nieces and nephews, 39 grandchildren, 77 great-grandchildren,16 great-great-grands, 9 step children: Joan, Cherry, Polly, Leon, Richard, Diane, Karen, Steve, and countless other relatives and friends.

Noel Franklin was more than a husband, father, brother, and friend—he was a beacon of love and faith. As we remember him, may we find inspiration in his legacy of devotion to family, kindness to others, and a life well-lived.

Rest in peace, Noel, Snowy, Gramps, TC. You will forever remain in our hearts.