Theodore Charles Franklin

Theodore Charles Franklin, Jr. (known affectionately as Ted, or "Professor" to many) passed away peacefully on September 16, 2025. Born on April 9, 1949, in Elyria, Ohio, Ted was the beloved son of the late Theodore Charles Franklin, Sr. and Patricia Hope Reichholdt Franklin.

Ted is survived by his devoted wife of 54 years, Patricia Eileen Carroll Franklin; his daughters Jamie (Cameron) Thomas and Jennifer (Matthew) Ludewig; and his cherished granddaughters Emma and Lucia Barragan, and Hayley and Evelyn Ludewig. He is also survived by his sister, Betsy Williams; his niece, Andrea (Michael) White; his cousins; and several grandnieces. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Family was at the heart of Ted's life. He treasured time spent with loved ones, especially the many vacations that became lasting memories. Ted was a man of wide interests and accomplishments. A skilled pilot, he held private, commercial, instructor, and instrument ratings. He also earned an advanced class amateur (Ham) radio license, connecting with people from around the world. His love of adventure extended to music, traveling, and scuba diving.

Ted graduated from Hillsboro High School in Nashville, TN, before earning a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Administration from Middle Tennessee State University. He began his career teaching science at Stevenson High School in Stevenson, Alabama, then went on to work for Delta Airlines for 33 years, serving both on the ramp and in the control tower. Along the way, he built lifelong friendships that meant so much to him.

Faith was central to who Ted was. A member of Hope Community Fellowship in Loganville, GA, he lived out his beliefs daily. Those who knew him would describe him as a Christian, a caring and humble family man, and someone who found joy in serving others.

Visitation will be held on Monday, September 22, from 4:00-6:00 p.m. at Crowell Brothers Funeral Home and Crematorium, 201 Morningside Drive, Buford, GA 30518. A celebration of Ted's life will follow the visitation at 6:00 p.m. Burial will take place on Tuesday, September 23, at 2:00 p.m. Central Time at Stevenson City Cemetery in Stevenson, Alabama.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Lewy Body Dementia Association at www.lbda.org or to Hope Community Fellowship Church, 4037 Bailey Circle, Loganville, GA 30052.

On-line condolences may be expressed at www.crowellbrothers.com. Arrangements entrusted to Crowell Brothers Funeral Homes & Crematory, 201 Morningside Dr., Buford, GA 30518. 770-945-9999.