Bryan Edward Franz

Bryan Edward Franz, 63, of Russell, Kentucky, passed away peacefully at home on December 8, 2025, surrounded by family and friends, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. He was born on October 14, 1962, in Louisville, Kentucky, to the late Dr. Lewis E. Franz Jr. and Linda Lee Franz (Fox).

Bryan was a 1982 graduate of Russell High School and Ashland Community College. He dedicated 30 years of service as a unit operator at the AEP Big Sandy Power Plant before retiring in 2023. A lifelong member of the Corvette Museum, Bryan was an avid hot rod enthusiast who deeply appreciated the craftsmanship, beauty, and thrill of the open road. He also enjoyed spending time with his Curbdogs, sharing laughter and camaraderie. Bryan also treasured the time spent with his great-nephew, Parker, and great-niece, Piper.

Blessed with a remarkable green thumb, Bryan could bring nearly any plant back to life a reflection of his patient, nurturing nature. He was the kind of person who made the world a better place simply by being in it. His life was defined by generosity, kindness, and an unwavering willingness to help others. Whether shoveling a driveway, mowing a lawn, or fixing a mailbox, Bryan was always ready to lend a hand without ever being asked.

Bryan had a true heart for service and spent much of his life putting others before himself. He found great joy in cooking and often brought people together over a good meal. He was also deeply devoted to his fur babies and had a genuine love for animals, caring for them with the same compassion and tenderness he showed to everyone around him.

Above all, Bryan was the embodiment of a truly great person. He lived selflessly, loved deeply, and left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His smile, kindness, warmth, and generous spirit will be remembered always.

In addition to his mother, Bryan is survived by the love of his life of 19 years, Debra Renee Short of Ashland, Kentucky; his sister, Allison Lee Franz of Flatwoods, Kentucky; his niece, Cayce Tomlin, and her husband, Michael Tomlin; his great-nephew, Parker Tomlin; and his great-niece, Piper Tomlin, of New Albany, Indiana, along with many other family members and friends who will sadly miss him.

A celebration of Bryan's life will be held at 6:00 PM on Thursday, December 18, 2025, at Carmen Funeral Home. At Bryan's request, family and friends are asked to dress casually, wear their car shirts, and drive their cars in his honor.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in honor of Bryan to the American Cancer Society (www.cancer.org (http://www.cancer.org/)).

All arrangements are under the direction and care of Carmen Funeral Home, 2031 Argillite Road, Flatwoods, KY 41139