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Benjamin Franklin Obituary
LAKELAND - Dr. Benjamin Franklin, age 62, died Saturday (March 20, 2010) of heart failure.
God gave the gift of life to Benjamin Franklin on April 15, 1947 in the town of Lawtey, Florida. He was placed into the loving care of Robert H. and Ineater Franklin.
Ben attended public schools in Bradford County. Upon graduation from high school, Ben entered the University of Florida where he was one of six African Americans who were members of the graduating class of 1969. He graduated from Meharry Medical College in 1973. His medical internship was completed at Walter Reed Medical Center in Washington, D.C. Ben then served as a General Medical Officer in Fort Riley, Kansas and achieved the rank of Major. He performed his general surgery residency at the University Hospital in Jacksonville, FL.
In 1981, Ben made the decision to enter the practice of the late Dr. John S. Jackson upon his retirement which initiated the long-standing partnership with Dr. Wendell O. Blake. It was at the retirement roast for Dr. Jackson that Ben fell in love at first sight with his wife Stephanie Franklin. Together, the two became members of Greater St. Paul M.B.I. Church. After the unity of worshiping together, the bond of unity continued into every facet of their lives including work.
He was board certified from the American Board of Surgery and The American Board of Emergency Medicine. Since 1981, he has been on staff at Lakeland Regional Medical Center. In additional, he shared his gift of healing at Winter Haven Hospital, South Lake Memorial Hospital in Clermont, Bartow and Plant City General Hospital and at the Alliance Care Physicians' House Call.
The communities of Polk and Eastern Hillsborough Counties were the recipient of his care and concern. Ben contributed service to health boards, church boards and charitable organizations. So profound has the impact that he has had on the lives of so many, that it is impossible for the family to experience an outing without someone coming to relay a time when Dr. Franklin "saved" his or her life.
The completion of innumerable surgeries, the extension of a multitude of caring daily patient care, the response to the middle of the night calls and weekend runs dissolved into the visit from the "Great Physician" to call his servant from his many labors to his eternal reward on March 20, 2010. As the gates opened, a voice was heard saying...."well done my good and faithful servant, you have been faithful over a few things, come on up and I will make you ruler of many".
Ben was a man who loved and protected his family. The family now celebrates his transition from earth to heaven, and is confident that Ben is singing the lead role in the heavenly male chorus; first leading the singing of God Never Fails, He Brought Me Out and Only Jesus Can Save Your Soul.
Ben lives on in the heart and of his wife who has stood by his side for the span of 27 years with immeasurable love and devotion. Ben lives in the heart of his children Mecha and Brandon, with love and adoration for the best Dad in the world. His memories are held dear in the hearts of his parents Robert H. and Ineater Franklin, siblings Helen (Jerome) Smith, James (Wanda) Franklin, Columbus, OH., Sylvester Franklin, Daily City, CA., Dr. Henry (Dimeta) Franklin, Walterboro, S.C., Benita Saunders, Davie, FL., Dr. Anthony (Deidra) Franklin, Green Cove Springs, FL., mother-in-law Betty Raines, Lakeland, FL., brothers-in-law David C. (Monica) Raines, Colorado Springs, CO., Roderick (Katie) Raines, and Mark (Lisa) Raines, both of Indianapolis, IN., three Godsons Donovan Franklin, Ramadan Marshall and Alveron Wright and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles and friends.
All services will be held at Greater St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church. Visitation on Friday 6-8pm; funeral on Saturday at 11 a.m. Interment will be Sunday at 11 a.m. at the Peetsville Cemetery, Lawtey, FL. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Dr. Benjamin Franklin Memorial Scholarship Fund at Bank of America. Services entrusted to Coney Funeral Home. www.coneyfuneralhomes.com
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Memories and Condolences
for Benjamin Franklin
Charlotte Simmons
May 20, 2010
A wonderful person. GOD'S LOVE TO THE FAMILY.
Charlotte Simmons
Kimberly Long
April 27, 2010
Dear Stephanie, and children,
May God's Love and Grace be with you as you live on in Dr. Franklins Spirit. I miss him greatly as I know you do as well. I will never forget him for me he was my hero. Thank you for sharing your time with such a Great and Caring Husband and Father to us that needed him in a time in our lives.
Irma Gibson
April 19, 2010
To the family of Doctor Anthony Franklin. We deeply regret the loss of your brother. May God grant you peace and love always.
Irma Gibson Family
Jacksonville, Florida
Khalid & Rebecca Naseer
April 12, 2010
We just learned of Dr. Franklin's passing today and want to extend our sincere sympathy to his family. He was a fine doctor who will truly be missed. May God comfort his family in this time of sorrow.
Ranee Coffy-Andesha
April 12, 2010
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Joan Payne
April 12, 2010
My thoughts and prayers are with the family of Dr. Benjamin Franklin at this time of loss. May the sweet memories of his presence with you bring you continued strength and comfort.
Lady Joan C. Payne and Family
Montgomery County (MD) Chapter
The Society, Inc.
Sarah & Tom Butler
April 4, 2010
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
April 2, 2010
DR. Franklin,
Had the honor of meeting you, it was indeed my pleasure. Thank you so much for what you have given to the patients, as well as the families. You will truly be missed by all the lives you have touched.
My thoughts and condolences to the family. Pam Broadnax{LRMC}
john ellington
April 2, 2010
ben was a fine doctor and loved by many fellow physicians and employees of lrmc and this community and will be truly missed
JOSEPH ELMORE
April 1, 2010
TO THE FRANKLIN FAMILY
WE WERE SADDEN BY THE NEWS OF YOUR SON/BROTHER PASSING. WE PRAY THAT IN YOUR TIME OF LOSS, YOU CAN BE ASSURED THAT THERE ARE THOSE WHO SHARE YOUR FEELINGS.
Alfredo Rivera
March 31, 2010
My thoughts and condolences to Dr Franklin, who was one of the few doctors I knew with a carismatic and humble heart, he was my primary doctor for 5 yrs I will deeply miss Dr Franklin. May the Holy Spirit comfort his wife and family through this difficult time.
Johnnie Brown
March 31, 2010
I have worked at LRMC for 35yrs so I was here when Dr. Franklin came. His smile was infectious. My name is Johnnie and he would always greet me by saying "Here's Johnnie", referring to the old Johnny Carson TV show introduction by Ed McMann. I will never forget him.
Johnnie A. Brown
March 30, 2010
I worked at LRMC for 20 yrs. Dr. Franklin was one of the few doctors that always had time for a warm hello. He will always be remembered as one of the special doctors. I will miss him! Joyce W.
March 30, 2010
Ben was truly a renaissance man. He was able to blend christian principles of love and dedication to family with his immense intellectual capabilities. He believed in doing the right thing, but was not self righteous. Even in high school, Ben evidenced character traits of dedication and integrity, perhaps more than any of our classmates. He made us proud and will be greatly missed.
Stephanie, thanks for your graciousness and consideration during Ben's service and afterwards. We pray that God's love will provide comfort and peace for you, your children and all of Ben's family during this difficult time.
fondly,
class of 1965
RJE High School
Willie 'Dickie' & Mary Gibson
March 29, 2010
Remember your husband and all the happiness you two shared until time can soften your sadness and soothe your tender soul. Think back on all the smiles and special times, take comfort in knowing that the beauty of those moments never really will go away.
With Deepest Sympathy
Rev Willie&Jeanie Strong
March 29, 2010
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Fiesta Kagler
March 28, 2010
Mrs. Franklin and Family,
I was deeply sadden to learn of Dr. Franklin's passing.
He was my doctor before I relocated. He was an awesome doctor, whose concen and compassion was felt by all who knew him. Thanks for sharing such a kind individual. May the warm memories, the inspiration and joy he shared bring you comfort during this most difficult time.
March 28, 2010
with deepest sympathy and loving memories of benjamin.
a schoolmate and a friend of the family.
cora kittles anderson
ft. lauderdale, fl
Pam Glover Payne
March 27, 2010
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Angela Scurry-Clark
March 27, 2010
To the family my name is Angela Clark the grandaughter of Lilly Franklin-Scurry of Lawtey, Fl the sister of the late Robert Franklin Sr.
I am so sorry to here about the passing of such a great man, whom I never got the opportunity to meet. I've heard nothing but great things about him.
My prayers are with the family.
Elder Jerry & Angela Scurry-Clark
1313 Wagner Ave
Lehigh Acres, Fl 33972
Jo and Bill Allen
March 27, 2010
Mrs. Franklin, children, Dr. Benjamin Franklin filled a great need in this community. He took wonderful care of us for the last fifteen years. He always spent time to know us personally and to be a friend. Over the years, we shared so much. He always spoke with such pride and love for his children and for his beautiful wife. We also spoke often about God and I know that his heart was turned toward Heaven and the Master Healer. We are lifting you to Jesus at this time to know His peace and His comfort.
Thank you for all the love that you gave to us over the years. And we are thankful to have known and been the friend of such a wonderful man. May God bless and keep you.
Cateria Davis RN
March 27, 2010
Thanks to the family for sharing Dr. Franklin with us at Lakeland Regional and in the community. He was such a pleasure to be around. So genuine, passionate, and caring to his patients and staff. May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
DEONDRA FELTON
March 27, 2010
TO THE FRANKLIN FAMILY I CAN SURELY SAY HE WAS A GOOD DR WE ALL WILL MISS HIM I THANK GOD FOR ALLOWING HIM TO BE IN OUR LIVES WE LOVE HIM BUT GOD LOVE HIM BEST HE WILL BE MISSED LOVE ALWAYS DEONDRA
Earl Kagler
March 27, 2010
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
March 27, 2010
Stephanie and Family,
We express our heart felt condolences.This isn't an easy time,we know,but do remember God is with you always.
Peace,
Yvonne and Juli Von McShay
March 26, 2010
Stephanie & Family,
Our deepest sympathy go out to each of you. I had the pleasure of working with Doctor Franklin for many years at Lakeland Regional Medical Center. He was a wonderful physician. He was kind, caring, compassionate and easy to work with. He touched the lives of so many people. We will miss him greatly.
Frank &
Marjorie Roundtree
March 26, 2010
The Members of St. John M. Baptist Church family express our deepest sympathy to the entire Franklin Family, and may God continue to bless you.
St. John M. B. Church of Lawtey
Rev. James E Rackley, Pastor
Sis Odessa Hamilton, Corresponding Sec.
P. O. Box 309
Lawtey, Fla. 32058
Michelle
March 26, 2010
To the family, when I worked at LRMC he was so kind and was such a nice Dr I enjoyed talking with him. He will be truly missed!
Florence Grays
March 26, 2010
To the Franklin family:
may God comfort your hearts.
Ted and Florence Grays
~ Florence, Lakeland, Florida
March 26, 2010
I would like to extend my heartfelt condolences to Ben's family. I worked with Ben for several years and found him to be a very caring physician and very pleasant person to know. The lakeland community will truly miss him and his surgical skills.
tom goodnight m.d.
Matylda Thompson
March 26, 2010
Mrs Franklin,
I am sooooo very sorry for your loss, I know this is a difficult time for you, and your kids. I will be praying that GOD gives you the strenght you need.
Kathie Boyette
March 26, 2010
To the Family~
I do not know you personally,I worked at LRMC for some years. I just wanted to tell you that Dr. Franklin was always a breath of fresh air. He made my day! He always had a smile on his face and had something nice to say about his beautiful wife....A true gentleman,and a great professional. He will be missed. May God be with you at this time.
Uncle Jonathan and Aunt Kathy Gross
March 26, 2010
Stephanie, just want you to know we are praying for you, the children, Betty and all the family members.
We can't physically be with you, but our hearts are with you during this time of sadness, but great joy knowing that Ben is in a far better place.
"Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints." Ps. 116:15
We love you and I will be in contact with you later.
Margaret Fraser
March 26, 2010
our sympathies to the family
TERRIE
March 26, 2010
I MET DR FRANKLIN 6YRS AGO AND I GOT TO SEE HIM AND MRS FRANKLIN IN THE OFFICE ONCE EACH WEEK, I LOVED TO TALK TO HIM HE WAS ALWAYS KIND AND SO PLEASANT TO BE AROUND. THIS WEEK I WENT IN TO HIS OFFICE AND I REALLY MISSED HIM AND REALIZED I WOULD NEVER FORGET HIM. DEAR MRS FRANKLIN YOU AND YOUR FAMILY ARE IN MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS AND WE ALL LOVE YOU VERY MUCH.
TERRIE,LACEY,CHERIE,NIKKI,AND MIKE
P.M.B.A.
Judith Azbell
March 26, 2010
I worked in the Medical Staff Office at Lakeland Regional Medical Center for many years. Dr. Franklin was always pleasant, professional and a gentleman. My condolences to his family for their tremendous loss.
Judith Azbell
Rebecca Ruschel
March 26, 2010
Mrs. Franklin and family, Dr. Franklin was a very special and caring man. Always a smile and a cheerful word to help you, as well as his medical knowledge. I shall always be grateful for his care of my late husband, Benjamin Brown, and myself. You have my heartfelt condolences for your loss and my prayers to help all who knew him get through this difficult time.
Trish Dukes(Chappell)
March 25, 2010
I had the pleasure of working with Dr. Franklin at Winter Haven Hospital in the early 1990's. It was always a good night in the ER when he was there. He was such a teddy bear and would do whatever needed to be done for anyone. There will always be an inside joke between he and I---Take 2 Tylenol and you'll be fine. I will always cherish the times we worked together and the friendship we had. Still seeing his smiling face with his curls hanging.
Stephanie, our family is truly saddened by this untimely unfortunate time you and your family are going through. When my dad told me of Dr. Franklin's passing I was sick. I couldn't believe this. Please, if there is anything that you or your family need, do not hesitate to call. Our prayers and love are with you all.
Penny and Art Chappell
Trish, Brandon, and Joe
Brenda Noor
March 25, 2010
Mrs Franklin,
I am so sorry for your loss of Dr Franklin. I had only a couple of contacts with him about my mother who is at The Meadows in Winter Haven. But, he always had such a wonderful and calm manner with my mother and the other patients. He will be truly missed. Thank you for sharing him with the community.
And, please accept my heartfelt sympathy.
Sincerely,
Brenda Noor
Helen Adams
March 25, 2010
My sympathy is with the family; you are in my prayers.
March 25, 2010
On the behalf of our family, we would like to express our deepest sympathy to the Franklin Family. Dr. Franklin was a humble, kind and compassionate doctor. He always greeted us with a smile, handshake and the Word. As his spirit celebrates in heaven, have the assurance he left behind a legacy of integrity and greatness.
Rhonda, Nikea and Ralph Evans II
Alicia Rush
March 25, 2010
To Dr. Franklin's family,
I met Dr. Franklin for the first time November of 1988 as he was consulted by my OB doctor when I was 8 months pregnant with abdominal pain. He immediately recognized my symptoms as appendicitis and not labor. Since that day he has been my only physician since that time. During my years as a bedside nurse at LRMC it was always a pleasure to round with him, always smiling and happy. Please accept my hear felt condolences during this difficult time. I will miss him as my physician and friend. My thoughts and prayer are with each of you.
Sincerely,
Charles H Boykins
March 25, 2010
Dr. Franklin had a deep passion for Healing. Was approachable to Trust. Provided counsel, with an assurance of Privacy. Dr. Franklin Cared, beyond the Medical and also Ministered to the Soul.
Cassandra Johmson
March 25, 2010
On behalf of Harold and Cassandra Johnson, we send our condolesences to the Franklin Family. Know that our prayers and thoughts are with you.
March 25, 2010
From the staff at the Physican Answering Service. We will greatly missed you. Now you are the V.I.P.
March 25, 2010
What a loss to our community but a gain to heaven. My condolences to the Franklin family, but know this he touched more people than we can imagine and people are hurting all over. Prayers are going on all over from people who crossed paths with Dr. Franklin. May you find peace, knowing how loved he was by this community.
Donna Almon, RN
March 25, 2010
WE WILL CERTAINLY MISS OUR BELOVED PHYSICIAN. HE WAS A KIND AND CARING PERSON WHO ALWAYS WOULD LISTEN TO YOU. WE ARE SO BLESSED TO HAVE KNOW HIM. MR. AND MRS. TOM WESTMORELAND
Jamie Gaskin
March 25, 2010
I can truly say, that Dr. Franklin was the best doctor I have ever had. I looked forward to my visits to his office. He truly was a compassionate and caring individual and I will miss him. Mrs. Franklin and your family, my
prayers are with you.
March 25, 2010
With deepest sympathy from Mrs. Abram (LCMA)
March 25, 2010
Stephanie, I am so very sorry for the loss of Dr. Franklin he will be missed by all who loved him. If I can do any thing for you please call. Clara at Viste.
Lois McCloskey
March 25, 2010
On behalf of The Meadows at Cypress Gardens staff, and residents- we have Dr. Franklin's family and friends in our prayers. It was an honor to be associated with him. The residents of The Meadows received the highest quality care from Dr. Franklin which was delivered in the most caring way.
dawnetta wearing
March 25, 2010
my mom has been a patient of dr. franklin for years. i also had opportunity to work with dr franklin at lakeland regional. he was a man that never frowned. everytime i seen him he was full of joy. to the family dr franklin will be greatly missed.
The Downing's
March 25, 2010
Sephanie, Mecha, Brandon and the Franklin Family, our thouhts and prayers are with you and we extend our heartfelt sympathy to you at this time. Dr. Franklin was our famillies physician since we moved to Lakeland 23 years ago and he was definitely one of the greats. He was truly admired for his caring qualities and unique laugh. Dr. J.L., Sr. & Sheryl Downing, and Meesha Downing, Lakeland, FL
Frank Neilan
March 25, 2010
Dr. Franklin was my Doctor when I started teaching in th early 90s. He was a wonferful person. And will truly be missed. God's blessings to his family and loved ones.
Frank, Debra, and Joseph Neilan
Sharon Webster
March 25, 2010
Mrs. Franklin and family so sorry for your lost, Dr. Franklin was such a great man . It was a honor to work with him , he was always a passionate and understanding person. he will truly be missed.
Sharon Webster Lkld, Fl
March 25, 2010
Mrs. Franklin and family so sorry for your lost, Dr. Franklin was such a great man . It was a honor to work with him , he was always a passionate and understanding person. he will truly be missed.
Sharon Webster Lkld, Fl
Acquanetta Speed
March 25, 2010
Stephanie,our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time.Dr.Franklin was certaintly one of the chosen ones that cannot be replaced.I will miss his signature chuckle that was one of a kind.This great and caring family doctor will be missed.
Mrs. Fannie Beasley
March 25, 2010
Franklin Family:
Our prayers are with you during your loss of your loved one. Dr. Franklin was a compassionate, and carrying physician. He was admired for his passion for his craft. He will be missed; but will remain forever in the minds and hearts of the lives he touched.
Faith and Prayers,
Mr & Mrs Criswell T. Brown, III
March 25, 2010
Franklin Family:
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of Dr. Benjamin Franklin' transistion to his heavenly home. We would like to thank you for the time that you shared your loved one with us. Dr. Franklin was a man of many gifts and talents. God gave him "Gifted and Healing Hands." Through his understanding of his gift and his love of God and Family, he transferred that blessing on to his patients.
Again, thank you for sharing. Dr. Franklin will be missed, but never forgotten.
Prayers, Peace and Blessings,
Sarah Butler
March 25, 2010
Sad to hear of a great doctor passing away, he has been my doctor for years. Yes he did care about how life was treating you.
Thank you for always caring.
March 24, 2010
Franklin Family, we extend our heartfelt sympathy to the entire family. May God forever bless and keep each of you is our prayer. Bobby & Linda Tyson Hampton Family, Starke, Florida
Bonnie Rodriguez
March 24, 2010
Mrs. Franklin,
Our family is praying for you and yours. May God provide you with comfort you need during this time. We send much love.
S Austin
March 24, 2010
I'm glad I had the opportunity to work for Dr. Franklin and he will be surely missed. He was one of a kind and a great inspiration to the community.
Michael Klempf
March 24, 2010
I was so saddened to hear of Dr. Benjamin Franklin's death. Ben and I were roomates in the summer of 1966 at the University of Florida, along with my very close friend, Greg Stimis. Ben was a delightful fellow. Greg and I had some fun that summer with Ben joking around and eating dinner together at the Gold CoastCafe, which was across the street from old Fletcher "O" dorms. My good friend Michael Pent would also meet us for dinner there. Ben was such a great guy. He always had that great smile and good nature.
We were all very lucky to have known Ben, and I will always cherish many fond memories of times with Ben.He will obviously be very much missed by his family, and all who knew him.
Mary
March 24, 2010
My prayers are with you and your family during this time. May God keep you. Mary (Lakeland, Fl)
Louis Johnson
March 24, 2010
"Mrs. Franklin and family, our prayers are with you in your time of grief. We will miss our dear friend and doctor's kind words and warm heart. The Johnson family (Winter Haven, FL)
Greg Stimis
March 24, 2010
I was so saddened to hear of Ben's passing. I had the pleasure and honor of being Ben's roommate at the University of Florida during the summer of 1966. I had recently transferred to the university and was assigned, with my best friend, to a dormitory room. Several days into the semester, Ben joined us. What great times we had! Things were different then but we never had any doubt that Ben would meet his goal of becoming a doctor. He taught me a lot about my fellow man and made the world a better place.
Ava (Tina) Lucas
March 24, 2010
Stephanie my prayers are with you and your family. The closeness of your family has always been a blessing to see at St Paul. Always together, unless it was the 3rd Sunday, and Dr. Franklin would have to take his place in the choir. Brandon couldn't let his Dad out do him so he had to join the choir also and try to out do his Dad.
I have to commend you Stephanie and Dr. Franklin on a wonderful job with Mecha and Brandon. "Doc" had to be very proud.
May God Continue To Bless You and Your Family. Keep trusting God, he will give you the comfort you need.
With love...
John and Donna Thompson
March 24, 2010
Our hearts felt like they broke in two when we recieved the phone call Saturday morning from Dr. Franklin's office. Dr. Franklin was the absolute best doctor we've ever had. His personality, his kindness, his bedside manner, and his skills were the absolute best. There will be no other doctor that can take his place. Thank you, Dr. Franklin for being you. Our deepest sympathy to Mrs. Franklin, Brandon, Mecha, and all his family.
March 24, 2010
i was so saddened by my bestfriend and doctor's death.god has called you home.love and respect forever. Evelyn david,jim emmons
Charles and Pamela Tate
March 24, 2010
Mrs. Franklin and family, our prayers are with you. Dr. Franklin was my husband's doctor and he thought a lot of him. In 1991 my husband was sent to Lakeland Regional in critical condition and we did not have a surgeon. Dr. Franlin was called in and he took real good care of my husband. He had an extensive say at the hospital but Dr. Franklin saw him through and he continued as his patient unitl we moved out of state in 2002. My husband commented about how hard he always worked so now he can rest. We are thankful that God sent him to Lakeland because he was a caring physician.
The obituary was beautiful and inspiring.
May the Lord strengthen and comfort each of you during this time and for the days ahead.
Charles and Pamela Tate
Dr. Meesha J. Downing
March 24, 2010
Mrs. Stephanie, Mecha and Brandon you all are in my thoughts and prayers. Dr. Franklin will be deeply missed. God Bless you all.
Patsy Goodman
March 24, 2010
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Gene Adams
March 24, 2010
Music, when soft voices die
Music, when soft voices die,
Vibrates in the memory—
Odours, when sweet violets sicken,
Live within the sense they quicken.
Rose leaves, when the rose is dead,
Are heaped for the beloved's bed;
And so thy thoughts, when thou art gone,
Love itself shall slumber on.
By Percy Bysshe Shelley
The Poetry Foundation
March 24, 2010
"To Mrs. Franklin & Family I'm sorry for your loss Dr. Franklin was a great Doctor he will be miss by me u don't find many dr. like him he will be hard to replace as my physician but my prayers are with u and your family may god be with you" casandra simpson ( Lakeland,FL)
ROSE PATTERSON
March 24, 2010
MY PRAYER ARE WITH THE FRANKLIN FAMILY
Alain Delgado, MD
March 24, 2010
I was saddened by the news of the loss of a great physician. I had the pleasure of working with Dr. Franklin in Lakeland before going to Winter Haven. I will remember him for his smile and ALWAYS kind greetings. He was a good man and will be missed. It was an honor to have known him. May God bless his family and provide comfort in this time of need.
Cynthia Windham
March 24, 2010
God said, He will wipe all your tears away. The Franklin Family, I pray that God will comfort you and keep you during this time. Dr. Franklin was my husband's Doctor and he had nothing but GOOD things to say about him. Sorry for your loss.
March 24, 2010
To the Franklin family,my prayers are with you all in your time of sorrow. Dr. Franklin's strong good morning voice to everyone echoing
down the halls of lrmc, and friendly conversations will certainly be missed.
We pray GOD'S strength upon the family,
Rana Cooper
March 24, 2010
My prayers and condolences to Mrs. Franklin and family.
March 24, 2010
To Dr. Franklins' family-I am so sorry for your loss and the loss to our medical community. He will be missed by his patients, and by our Lakeland Regional staff. I have worked with him for many years here at the hospital and he has always shown patience and compassion in caring. Brenda K. Kelly, RN
Judge Timothy Coon
March 24, 2010
To Mrs. Stephanie Franklin & Family:
On the "Wings of Death", the soul takes flight into the land where there is no night---for those who believe what the Saviour said will rise in glory though they be dead---so death comes to us just to open the door to the "Kingdom of God" and life forevermore.
It our prayer that God will sustain your family through these bereaved times.
The Coon Family
Corlis Johnson
March 24, 2010
My pray for you and your family is the continual surrounding, presence,and power of the indescribable love and comfort of the Holy Spirit. Life may bring a day that appears dismal, depressing and dark, but The Lord is faithful and will send an unexpected burst of golden sunshine with inspiring shafts of warmth and beauty.
Clifton Wheeler, MD
March 24, 2010
To Ben's family , I give my heart felt condolences for your loss. As a physician, I have had the pleasure and honor of working with him over the years and have had a true respect for his abilities and good nature. He will be sorely missed professionally and personally. My thoughts and prayers are with you all and hope that the love and mercy of our Lord and King is being felt through this time of grieving.
carrie spencer
March 24, 2010
Our prayer's are with the Franklin Family. Dr Franklin was the best Doctor in the World. My Father is 90 yrs young and he is hear today because of the great care
Dr. Franklin provided for him. we will miss you very much, you and your Family were apart of our Family for Many Years. Be Blessed From: the Spencer Family.
Ginger Grace
March 24, 2010
With deepest sympathy and condolences in your time of loss.
Denorva Bighams
March 24, 2010
My condolences to you Mrs. Franklin, your children, other family members and close friends of the Franklin family. Dr. Franklin was a great physician, who has help to bring good health to many people for many years. I always felt comforted to know Doc was managing my health care. He will be deeply missed and hard to replace. You are in my prayers daily. May God give you strength to bear your grief and give you joy as he has shared one of his greatest creations as a gift to you. Please know: Whatever your cross, whatever your pain, there is always sunshine after the rain. Perhaps you may stumble, perhaps even fall, but God always ready to answer your call. He knows every heartache, sees every tear. A word from his lips, can calm every fear. Your sorrows may linger, thoughout the night, But suddenly vanish, dawn's early light. The savior is waiting, somewhere up above, to give you his grace and send you his love. Whatever your cross, whatever your pain. God always sends rainbows after the rain. BE BLESSED
Barbara Davis
March 24, 2010
To Stephanie & Families: I am sorry to hear of your loss, but heaven's gain. "Dr. B" will be missed, but never forgotten. I had the pleasure of knowing "Dr. B" for many years in working next door in the office complex. He always greeted me with a smile and gave me the name of "Ms. B".
There is a land of pure delight where saints immortal reign infinite day excludes the night and pleasure banishes it the pain.
"For me to live in Christ, and to die is gain". We must not mourn those without hope, for Dr. Franklin has gone to get the great reward promised to all who faithfully serve our Lord & Savior Jesus Christ.
Summon the strength that your son-husband-father--brother exemplified, beckon the wisdom he instilled, cherish the memories he facilitated and embrace the love he bequeathed.
My prayers are with your families and close friends who celebrate and mourn such a magnificient patriarch. May God bless you abundantly and may you have double portions of SHALOM [LOVE]--forever rooted in God's amazing love.
Arlene Smith
March 24, 2010
I was a patient of Dr. Franklin for many many years and he is going to be truely missed. May God bless his family.
Michael Pent
March 24, 2010
I met Ben when he came to the University of Florida. It was clear from the start that he was a determined student who would be a great success in life. More than that, he was a wonderful person, a delight to know and to be around. He expressed himself with a smile on his face and his words seemed always to mingle with a joyous laughter. He was an upright and very good man. I am proud to have known him and sad that he departed this world at such a young age. He will live forever in the memories of all who knew him.
Kim Hyatt
March 24, 2010
My prayers are with you Mrs. Franklin and Family. It was a pleasure working with and knowing Dr. Franklin. May you have peace and comfort during your time of grief.
Deloris & Regi Patterson
March 24, 2010
Our deepest sympathy is extended to Stephanie and family. The Lord is near to all who call upon him...Psalm 145:18. May God, who watches over us and hears us when we pray, be very near to give you strength and comfort. You are being kept close in our heart at this difficult time. We pray for your strength and peace and hope that you can feel all the care and support from your family and friends. At this time of your loss, we hope you will find comfort in the thought that your loved one is now in a place of peace and that your loving memories of your life as husband and wife, father and mother, will live on forever. Hold on to the thought that your lives lived with so much love never really ends but will go on forever in your heart.
May God be with you during your time of bereavement and we love you.
Beverly Pringle
March 24, 2010
Dr. Franklin was a doctor that one is rarely fortunate to find. I thank God for allowing him to be in my life as my physician and take such good care of me for so many years. He was always kind and patient. I am truely grateful for that. May God continue to strengthen and keep the entire family.
Kim Hyatt
March 24, 2010
My prayers are with you Stephanie and Family. It was a true pleasure working with and knowing Dr.Franklin. May you have peace and comfort in the days to come.
Felicia Kennedy
March 24, 2010
I was a patient and he always would
shake my hand and ask how life was treating me. He was a very concerned
doctor. He will truly be missed by all.
May God continue to give his family strength and comfort.
Kim Hyatt
March 24, 2010
My prayers are with you Stephanie and Family. It was a pleasure working with and knowing Dr Franklin. May you have have peace and comfort in the days to come.
Ronnie Hogan
March 24, 2010
May God grant comfort and peace to you in your time of bereavement. My prayers are with you.
Demetrius McDouga; Paramedic
March 24, 2010
To the family, Im am sorry for your lost.I have had the pleasure of working with Dr. Franklin on many occations, he always kept the patient needs first priority. He will be greatly missed by me and the medical field and the patients...
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Make a Donation
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Memorial Events
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How to support Benjamin's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
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Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
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What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
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Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
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The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Benjamin Franklin's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
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Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
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How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
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