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Rudolph Franklin Obituary
Dr. Franklin attended Belmont Abbey College for two years then finished his BS from Emory University; his Masters from the University of Georgia; and his PH.D from the University of Minnesota. He was director of State and Private Forest Resources with the US Forest Service in Asheville, NC. He is recognized for ground breaking work with the Forest Pine Beetle. He was president of the Georgia Entomological Society, and the UGA Sigma Xi honorary scientific society. He retired from UGA as professor of Entomology and of Forest Resources. He served as first lieutenant in the US Army during the Korean conflict. Dr. Franklin sang in the choir of the Catholic Center in Athens, and the Athens Choral Society. He love square dancing and was a caller.
He is survived by his wife, Ann Adams Franklin of Elberton; five children: Catherine, Thomas, Julie, Elizabeth and Michael; fourteen grandchildren; brother Albert Franklin; and caregiver Jacqueline Smith.
The family will receive friends on Tuesday, February 1 from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Hicks Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, February 2 at 11:00 am at Concord United Methodist Church, with burial following at Forest Hills Memorial Park. The family may be contacted at the residence.
Hicks Funeral Home is charge of arrangements for Dr. Rudolph Thomas Franklin.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Rudolph Franklin
5 Entries
Bob Jacobson
November 9, 2025
I just encountered this obituary upon checking up on people I knew at UGA. I was a grad student in Dr. Franklin's department, and although I was never in his class or had him on my graduate committee, I found him very approachable and "down-to-earth" and enjoyed visiting with him in his office to talk about various entomological and natural history subjects. I have a few specimens in my quite extensive collection that he collected during his trips to Minnesota. Seeing this obituary brought back fond memories. I am thankful for the opportunities I've had to interact with him back during the mid- and late 1970s. May he rest in peace.
Linda DeBauch
April 3, 2018
I don't know the reason why you have been in my thoughts today. I searched you out and I felt led to reopen your message page. If I could turn back time ,I'd love to hear your words of wisdom and watch Doris Day black and white movies on Saturday morning. RIP.\o/
Theresa Pitts-Singer
February 2, 2005
I was a teaching assistant to Dr. Franklin for General Entomology Lab during my 1st year of grad school at UGA in 1989. I had great respect for him and continued to be in touch with him through my graduation, and was very touched when he attended my PhD defending seminar. When I later taught an Insect Natural History Class at UGA, he welcomed my class at his home for collecting and a cookout. He was a geniune and charming person.
Corwin Mokler
February 2, 2005
I regret we were unable to attend the wake or funeral of Rudy. He was a wonderful companion in the choir and in choral society. My sympathy to family, especially Ann who worked so hard for his health, and for Julie.
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Ogden Allsbrook
February 1, 2005
I am saddened to learn of Rudy's death. We were often companions at lunch at Snelling Hall at the "community" dining table. After retirement, I would see Rudy at McDonalds, or some other venue, and always marvel at his strength and resolution in the face of adversity. He was a wonderful individual who contributed much to all those he touched with his talent and grace. My deepest sympathies are with you in your loss.
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