Franklin Joseph Lichty Jr.

Franklin Joseph Lichty, Jr., a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 14, 2025, at the age of 95. Born on June 5, 1930, in Philadelphia, Franklin was the son of the late Franklin Lichty Sr. and Mabel Bessemer Lichty.
Raised on Linton Street in the Olney section of Philadelphia, he attended Olney High School. After proudly serving his country as a decorated veteran of the United States Navy, he returned home and began a career as a printer with Fuller Type. Later, he retired from Betz Laboratories, Inc. after many dedicated years as a security guard.
Franklin shared 67 and a half years of marriage with his soulmate, Theresa "Terry" Danner Lichty, whom he met through his best friend, Mel Ehinger. Their love story, though the details of that first encounter vary, was marked by laughter and adventure. A family trip to Tennessee included an unforgettable encounter with a black bear. Despite everyone's teasing that Yogi Bear was just after his picnic basket. Franklin was not amused.
Together, Franklin and Terry built a life filled with warmth and joy, residing in various neighborhoods including Mayfair, Levittown, Burholme, Lawndale, and Holmesburg.
He delighted in simple pleasures-gardening, mowing the lawn, watching his cherished Eagles and Phillies play, whether at home or at the stadium, and trying his luck at the casinos. Known for his playful spirit, he enjoyed board games and cards with his family, often getting caught cheating with a mischievous grin. A jokester at heart, he took great pleasure in light-heartedly harassing his loved ones, always bringing smiles to those around him. His family bestowed on him the title of "Best Sleeper in the World"!
He is survived by his beloved wife, Terry; loving daughter Denise and her husband Tom and son Kenneth; his cherished grandchildren Nicholas Schwartz, Michelle Schwartz, David Lichty and his wife Melissa, and Michael Lichty and his wife Aubrey. Franklin is also remembered fondly by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Elaine Price, and brother Martin Lichty.
A celebration of Franklin's life will be held on Saturday, June 21, 2025, from 10 AM to 12 PM, with a service at noon. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests contributions in his memory to Saint Jude Children's Research Hospital, reflecting his generous spirit and dedication to helping others. A link appears in the Donations section below.
Franklin will be deeply missed but forever remembered for his enduring love of family and joyful approach to life. May he rest in peace.