James Daron Franklin

James Daron Franklin passed away in Abilene on November 21, 2023.

Daron was born in Abilene to Ted G. Franklin and Sharon (Isenburg) Franklin on February 18, 1969. He went to Johnston Elementary, Mann Jr. High and graduated from Abilene High School in 1987. He attended Abilene Christian University and later received his Bachelor of Arts degree from Lamar University. Daron served our community in the Abilene Police Department and our country as a soldier in the Tenth Mountain Division of the US Army. After college, he taught art in the Texas elementary school system. In recent years, he lived on the family stock farm near Potosi and was part of the Praise Team of Three Crosses Cowboy Church. He had a passion for music from an early age. He played in many bands and wrote songs and played electric bass in school choir at age eleven.

Daron was preceded in death by his mother, Sharon; and all four grandparents.

He is survived by a son, Torin Franklin of Smithville; a daughter, Jewel Byars of Austin; his father and step- mother, Ted and Giny Franklin; brother, Donald Franklin and wife Carnell; stepsisters, Cynie Youngwirth, Dana Villarreal and Stephanie Christine; granddaughters, Pepper Franklin and Emery Ann Byars. He is also survived by two uncles, three aunts, six cousins, one nephew, two nieces, many dear friends and his loyal dog, Gerty.

A memorial service will be held in the Elmwood Chapel on Saturday, November, 25th at 2:00 PM.

The family wishes to thank Deborah RN, All the staff at Hendrick Hospital sixth floor and all the staff at Hendrick Hospice for their compassionate care and excellent service.