Raymond “Big Ray” Franklin, Sr., 84, of Mulberry, passed away Saturday, March 7, 2026 in Fort Smith. He was born November 26, 1941 in Ada, Oklahoma to the late Rev. C.R. and Pearline (Roberts) Franklin. He served his country in the U.S. Army, and had worked for McDonnell Douglas in Tulsa.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Lou Ella Franklin; a son, Raymond “Little Ray” Franklin, Jr.; and a brother, Bobby Franklin.
He is survived by a daughter, Joy McBee and husband Edwin of Mulberry; four grandchildren, Cathy Rush, Hope Young, Ryan Franklin, and Tylar Franklin, many great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.
Cremation is under the direction of Edwards Van-Alma Funeral Home of Van Buren, AR.
