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Mr. Benjamin Franklin King III passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, April 13, 2018. Franklin was born in Nashville, Tennessee on August 9, 1928. His family moved to Mobile when he was a young boy. In the fall of 1942, he met and developed a friendship with Lois Anne Jones. Their friendship developed into a loving relationship and they were married in November, 1950. Lois Anne was truly the love of his life and they enjoyed a wonderful marriage of 63 years lasting until her death in 2013. Franklin carried on bravely though he missed Lois Anne terribly for his remaining years. Franklin was a member of the 1945 Graduating class of Murphy High School. He remained active in the affairs of the class until his death. He was a Ramblin Wreck from Georgia Tech where he graduated in 1950. He maintained close ties to his Alma Mater through the years and was blessed to have a dear young friend, Trevor Boehm, who would take him to Tech football viewing parties whenever possible. After college, Franklin entered the military and served in the U.S. Airforce. Upon returning to Mobile, he began his career at the First National Bank, which lasted for 37 years. Franklin was an avid golfer and along with many good friends, played golf literally around the world. He loved this city and was president of no less than 10 civic organizations during his lifetime. He loved Mardi Gras and was member of several mystic organizations. Right alongside his love of Lois Anne was his love for the First Baptist Church. His Church was uppermost in his mind, even up to the day he died. Franklin was a wonderful father, husband and family man. He was a true southern Gentleman. He leaves a multitude of family and friends to cherish his memory. Franklin was preceded in death by his parents, Benjamin Franklin King, Jr. and Katherine Herbert King. His wife Lois Anne Jones King and a sister, Dorothy King Terrell. He is survived by his daughter, Kathy Whitinger Thompson (Bobby) and son Dr. Benjamin Franklin King IV. Daughter –in-law Jo Ann Graffeo King. Grandchildren Olivia Whitinger Newton (Chase), George Whitinger, Dr. Kelsey King, Tyler King and Mary Franklin King. Two great grandchildren Katherine and Ava Newton. One sister Olivia King Crawford. Nieces and nephews Frank Groom Terrell (Rosie), Jean Terrell Recaborde (Alain), Helen Terrell Whiting (Robert), Conan King Terrell (Mary Ann), Hill Crawford (Sylvia), David Crawford (Lindsey), Curry Bedsole Adams (Gary) and Travis Massey Bedsole (Susan). Also his dear friend Ann Marie Terry. A memorial service will be held at First Baptist Church, 806 Government Street, at Noon on Friday April 20, 2018. A celebration of his life will be held immediately following the church service at Cotton Hall. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the First Baptist Church or to The Historical Restoration Society, PO Box 1566, Mobile, Al 36633.
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I'm so sorry for your. May the God of all comfort and mercy give the family hope and peace. Jeremiah 29:11.
Jeanette McGhee
April 22, 2018
Mr. King was my first "boss" right out of high school at First National Bank. He was the kindest man and always so patient with me. I never heard anyone say anything unkind about him. And oh, his smile! He truly was a Southern Gentleman. My sympathy to his family on their loss. Treasure your precious memories.
Judy Brasell Alexander
Judy Alexander
April 19, 2018
I'm saddened to read this. Mr. King was one of the most well-respected and genuinely admired officers of First National Bank during the years I worked there. You could see that charming smile of his coming at you a mile away. He will be sorely missed in the community. My heartfelt sympathy goes out to his kids, "Dr. Ben" and Kathy, and all the other members of his family. God give you peace and comfort during this sad time.
Lucille
Lucille Badger
April 18, 2018
So sorry for your family's loss Ben. I know you have many great memories of your dad to cherish.
Edd Smith
April 18, 2018
So sorry to see this. Another end to a great era. Love to the family. Patricia Watters Ezell
Patricia Ezell
April 18, 2018
Kathy:
I am truly saddened to learn that your dad has passed away. Although I knew who your dad was early in my life, I had the pleasure of getting to meet and to know him early in my career. He was a professional, true southern gentleman and father. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.
J. Carroll Smith
April 18, 2018
I'm so sorry to learn of Franklin's passing. I had the pleasure of being part of his morning Carpe Diem coffee group for a few years. He was one of the nicest men I've ever known.
Steve Cowan
April 18, 2018
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