Leigh E. Franklin

Leigh E. Franklin, 57, of Glendale Heights, IL, passed away on December 31, 2025. Born on March 11, 1969, Leigh was a beloved figure in his community and a cherished member of his family.
Leigh graduated from Glenbard North High School in 1987 and soon became known for his strong work ethic, which he applied to all aspects of his life. He had a profound passion for history, particularly the Civil War, and was an active member of the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War, U.S. Grant Camp 1863. His hobbies included traveling to Tennessee and visiting Civil War battlefields, reading, and listening to music. Leigh had a unique love for the supernatural, enjoying horror movies only during daylight hours and never alone.
He was a dedicated husband to Lori (Himes) Franklin and a loving father to James (Jay Jay) Franklin and Star the Puggabull. Leigh also leaves behind his mother, Darlene (Nemec) Franklin; aunts and uncles, Dick and Lyn Nemec, Terry (Nemec) and Bob Miklos, Ed and Sue Nemec, Jay and Jeanette Nemec; half-sister, Glenna Franklin; honorary uncle and aunt, Tom and Debbie Wolf; brother in law Kevin Himes and many cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Glenn Franklin; maternal grandparents, Edward and Eleanore Nemec; paternal grandparents, Raymond and Loretta Franklin; and half-sister, Julie (Franklin) McClanaghan and his Mother in Law Carole Himes.
Leigh's life will be celebrated on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at Brust Funeral Home, 415 N. Gary Ave., Carol Stream, IL. Visitation will start at 3pm followed by a brief service at 5pm. Attendees are encouraged to wear casual clothes, jeans and T-shirts are deemed perfectly appropriate for the occasion.
Leigh will be remembered for his love for his family and friends, his quirky humor, and his ability to make his wife laugh. His legacy of passion for history and dedication to his loved ones will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.