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Melvin Franklin Obituary

Melvin Donald (our beloved Papa) Franklin, 73, of Hampton, Va., and formerly of Roanoke, Va., departed this life on Tuesday, September 29, 2009. Melvin was an active member of Macedonia Baptist Church, in Newport News, Va. He was retired from the United States Army for whom he played Minor League Baseball, the Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salem, Va., and Hampton, Va., and Hampton City Public Schools. He was also a member of the West End Men Association RBC in Roanoke, Va. "Papa" was preceded in death by his parents, George and Virginia Franklin; his brother, George "June" Franklin; and his dearly loved grandson, Charlie-Man. He is survived by his devoted and loving wife, Yvonne Franklin; and his children, Melvin (Coretta) Franklin Jr., George Franklin, and Marsha Riggins, all of Roanoke, Va., Angela (Richard) Blue, of Hampton, Va., Sonya (Charles) Stokes, of Roanoke, Va., Katina (Milton) Otey, of Glen Allen, Va., Chad R. Franklin, of Arlington, Va., and William Franklin, of Hampton. He also leaves to cherish his memory six grandchildren, Nikki Riggins, Randy Riggins, Tiana (Justin) McWhite, Chayna Wright, Justin Blue, and Christopher Wright; as well as a host of relatives and friends; including one uncle; and several great-grandchildren. "Papa" was a wonderful husband, father, and grandfather who was truly loved and adored by all. He will be sorely missed. Rest in peace, Papa. You have earned your wings. Viewing will be held on Friday, October 2, 2009, from noon until 6 p.m. at Cooke Bros. Funeral Chapel, 1601-27th Street, Newport News, Va. 23607, 757-380-0251. Funeral services will be held 1 p.m. on Saturday, October 3, 2009, at Macedonia Baptist Church, 5500 Marshall Avenue, Newport News, Va. 23607, with the Rev. John Wilson officiating. Interment with Full Military Honors will follow in Hampton Memorial Gardens. Condolences may be sent to www.cookebros.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Roanoke Times on Oct. 2, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for Melvin Franklin

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October 24, 2009

I am sorry to hear of the lost of my friend, Melvin. My deepest sympathy to you Yvonne, and Chad. I can truely say, and without a doubt, Melvin was one of the coolest persons I have ever known. His easy going demeaner and generous spirit touched and inspired all. May God carry you on his back during this time of sorrow while Melvin is getting his wings.

Coach Nick

Jean Lightbourn (Powell)

October 7, 2009

Deepest sympathies to Melvin's family. I attended Lucy Addison High School in Roanoke with Melvin. We graduated in 1954. He was a great football player and athelete. God bless you in your time of sorrow.

Willie Mae Martin Broomfield

October 7, 2009

Please accept my deepest sympathies.

Terry Thomas

October 4, 2009

Mrs. Yvonne,William and Chad my deepest sympathies goes out to you and your family. Chad that was a beautiful poem you dedicated to your mother. I love the bond that the two of you share, continue to keep God first in everything you do. My prayers are with you all.

Yvette L. Jackson

October 3, 2009

Yvonne, and Family I am very saddened by the loss of this wonderful, wonderful man whom inspired me during my younger years here at the Salem, VA Medical Center (77-1) as I began my career in Nursing. Melvin was not only a wonderful co-worker, but a true friend. May God Bless and keep you and shine his light upon you and give you peace during these difficult times. My Heart goes out to you Yvonne and his lovely family.

S Harvey

October 3, 2009

My consolences go out to your family in this time of loss.

Maynard & Bettie Law

October 2, 2009

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Sabina Barlow

October 2, 2009

To Melvin ans Coretta:
Sorry to hear of your loss.May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Michelle, Jody, Dustin & Austin

October 2, 2009

To Yvonne and the entire Franklin family, we wish to express our deepest sympathies. May you find comfort in one another during this difficult time. I only met Melvin once but I even told Yvonne the next day that her husband seemed to have left an air of kindness in the room. Peace be with him and each one of you as well.

Tracy J. Williams

October 2, 2009

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Charlene Johnson

October 2, 2009

I'm so sorry to hear of Melvin's death.
Yvonne and family, there are no words that I can say,to take your pain and grief away.I pray that God would give the daily strength you need to live. I want you to know I'm here for you, weather in person or in spirit.
Your BFF

October 2, 2009

Marsha, I am so sorry to hear about your Father. He is in his Heavenly home and at peace. He will always live in your heart! God Bless you and your family. With my deepest sympathy, Your Friend, Vicki

October 2, 2009

Yvonne you and your family are in my prayers,I am so sorry to hear of Melvins passing but hopefully God will ease the pain that you are feeling B.Caine

Lloyd Barner

October 2, 2009

To the Franklin Family,
Though we know heaven has welcomed a very special person, our hearts still feel the sorrow.
With Sympathy and Loving Prayer

The Senior Usher Board of Macedonia Baptist Church.

October 1, 2009

William my heart is very heavy for you over your father's passing. It has only been two years since my father died and it is still hard, but you keep moving and living your life as you know he would want you too. You know I am here for you as well as when you return to school. Take things one day or moment at a time.
Love
Mrs. Howerton

Michael Davenport

October 1, 2009

The Davenport family wish to offer our heartfelt condolences to the Franklin family. Our prayers and thoughts are with you. We pray God's Blessing and Grace for the family in their time of need.

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