Luther Leland “Frank” Franklin, 76

Luther Leland “Frank” Franklin, 76, of Orange Park, FL passed away Friday, July 31, 2020.  Mr. Franklin was born in Clinton, South Carolina to the late Luther J. Franklin and Viola Lark Franklin.  He moved to the Clay County area in 1968 after spending the first part of his life in South Carolina.  He was a talented mechanic and loved old cars.  Everyone called Frank for help with their cars as he could fix one over the phone.  He loved his music, bluegrass especially.  Frank also loved old Western movies and television shows; his favorite was Bonanza.  He usually kept to himself and was quiet, but loved to help others.

Mr. Franklin was preceded in death by his wife of 36 years, Saundra Franklin; his daughter, Wanda Miles; and a brother, Tommy Franklin.  He is survived by six sons, Larry Franklin (Gina), Craig Topping (Vicky), Emmitt Topping (Heather), Billy Topping, Mike Topping, and Jeff Topping (Ann); one daughter, Cheryl Young; five brothers, William “Roger” Franklin, Donnie Franklin, Raymond Franklin, Michael Franklin, and Barry Franklin; two sisters, Jo Ann Franklin and Sherry Hitchcock; 26 grandchildren; over 25 great-grandchildren; and his cockatiel, Casey.

A memorial service will be held at 2pm on Saturday, August 15, 2020 at the Clay County Shrine Club, 2471 Russell Road, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Frank’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, https://www.stjude.org/donate/.

Arrangements are under the care of Russell Haven of Rest Cemetery, Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 2335 Sandridge Road, Green Cove Springs, FL  32043.  Family and friends may share their condolences at: www.RHRFH.com 904-284-7720