Gilbert Glen Franklin

Glen Franklin, 81, passed away peacefully on March 16, 2026, in his home, surrounded by his loving family and friends.

Born on February 5, 1945, Glen lived a life defined by service, connection, and a love for people. A friend through and through, he never met a stranger and found genuine joy in building relationships wherever he went. Glen was an avid hunter who loved time outdoors, whether in the woods or tending to his garden.

Glen had a deep passion for serving others and his community. He faithfully attended Crossroads Church of Moss Bluff for over 20 years, where he was actively involved in numerous ministries, including the Armorbearers, Men's Ministry, and as a dedicated door greeter.

His commitment to service extended beyond the church. Glen served on the Ward 1 Water Board for 37 years and was a longtime member of the Ritchie Cemetery Board. Even in recent years, he continued to seek opportunities to give back, most recently serving with the Community Outreach Center in DeQuincy-something that brought him great joy.

Glen worked as a salesman at G&G Valve and Supply, where he met, Debbie Spears Franklin. The two shared 33 wonderful years of marriage together.

Above all, Glen's greatest pride and joy was his family. He treasured every moment spent with them and was deeply rooted in his family's history. As the family genealogist, Glen spent countless hours researching and preserving their heritage, not only for his own family but also for others who sought his help. He often said that in 50 years of Franklin family reunions, he only missed one-and that was only because it wasn't held that year.

Those left to cherish his memory include his loving wife of 33 years, Debbie Franklin; his children, Dana Howard (Robbie), Angela Broussard (Teddy), Gilbert Franklin (Kathy), Shane Miller (Crystal), and Kari Bailey; his grandchildren, Ethan Howard, Kennedy Franklin, Tanner Bailey, Reagan Franklin, Ali-Mae Howard, Reagan Madden, Lincoln Miller, Franklin Miller, and Kamryn Bailey; his great-grandchildren, Adelyn Howard, Easton Howard, and TJ Madden; his sister Sandy Smith; as well as his dear friends, Dick Harrell and Ben Miller.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, March 20, 2026, at Johnson Funeral Home of Moss Bluff. Burial will follow at Old Ritchie Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Thursday, March 19, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Johnson Funeral Home and will resume on Friday at 8:30 a.m. until the time of service.