Ralph Emerson Franklin, Jr. 87, husband of MaryAnn (Sedlak) Franklin, formerly of Patchogue, New York, passed away Sunday, October 30, 2016 in Birch Gardens, Staunton.
Mr. Franklin was born on July 21, 1929 in Port Jefferson, New York, a son of the late Ralph Sr. and Mattie (May) Franklin.
Ralph proudly served his country in the United States Air Force and the United States Army and was employed for 30 years as a Lineman with KeySpan Energy in Long Island, New York. He collected rocks for over 40 years, traveled to 48 states, and enjoyed bird watching and walking along the beach.
In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by a sister, Jeanne Shannon and a step-daughter, Joanne Sparling.
Surviving is a son, Gerald Franklin and his wife Elaine of Fishersville; a daughter, Terri L. Franklin of North Carolina; two sisters, Georgia Olsson of South Carolina and Donna Perry of Patchogue, New York; a step-grandson, James Sparling; two step-granddaughters, Danielle Saulle and Jennifer Dennis; and seven great-grandchildren also survive.
The family will receive friends from 2:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Tuesday, November 1, 2016 in the Coffman Funeral Home and Crematory.
A Celebration of life will be conducted 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, November 1, 2016 in the Coffman Funeral Home Chapel by Pastor John M. Ward.
Coffman Funeral Home and Crematory, 230 Frontier Drive, Staunton is in charge of his arrangements.
Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.coffmanfuneralhome.net.