Albert J. Franklin

Albert J. Franklin, age 78, of Rome, New York, passed away peacefully in January 2026 at Bethany Gardens, Rome, where he had resided since March 2021.

Albert was born on July 3, 1947, at Herkimer Memorial Hospital, just minutes after his twin brother, Arthur. He was the son of the late Arthur and Bernadine (Caldwell) Franklin. Albert was a graduate of West Canada Valley Central School, Class of 1965, and earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Education from Cortland State University in 1969. He later received a Master of Science degree in Mathematics from Syracuse University at Utica College.

On December 21, 1973, Albert married the love of his life, Betty J. Case, during a memorable snowstorm at St. John's Catholic Church in Newport, New York. He began his career teaching mathematics at Stratford Central School for two years before joining PAR Technology as a software engineer, where he worked until health challenges related to Alzheimer's disease prevented him from continuing.

Albert was known for his warm personality and genuine love for people. He was well-liked by all who knew him and had a special gift for bringing laughter to any gathering. He enjoyed listening to music, watching television, playing cards with family and friends, and being the life of the party.

A man of faith, Albert trusted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. He was an active member of Rome Assembly of God and Resurrection Life Church in Rome, New York, where he faithfully served as an elder, treasurer, greeter, drama participant, and member of the nursing home ministry. He treasured outings with his daughter to Denny's, meals with his wife and daughter at the Iron Kettle, and could never pass up a Frosty from Wendy's.

Albert is survived by his devoted wife, Betty Franklin; his daughter, Carrie, and her husband, Moe, of Syracuse, New York; his son, Albert John Franklin, and his wife, Kelly, of Tipp City, Ohio; and his beloved grandchildren, Amelia and Peter. He is also survived by his siblings and their spouses: his twin brother Arthur (Deiann) Franklin; Mary Agne; Gerard (Carol) Franklin; Monica (Gary) Sheppard; Jacqulyn (David) Rice; as well as his in-laws Donna Franklin, William (Lisa) Case, and Sondra Lennox. He is further survived by many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was predeceased by his parents; his brothers Bernard and Eugene Franklin; his sisters Maureen Raslan and Geralyn Hillman; and his in-laws L. Allen Agne, Amin Raslan, Duane Lennox, Thomas Case, and Lewis Case.

A calling hour will take place at the Autenrith Funeral Home, 7479 Main Street, Newport on Tuesday, January 20 from 2:00 – 3:00 pm. A funeral service will follow at 3:00 pm. Interment at Newport Cemetery will take place in the spring.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Albert's memory may be made to Resurrection Life Church in Rome, 628 Floyd Avenue, Rome, NY 13440 or the Humane Society of Rome, P.O. Box 4572, Rome, NY 13440.