Bobby “Bob” James Franklin

Bobby “Bob” James Franklin, 87, of Morganton, NC, passed away Tuesday, January 20, 2026. Bob is now reunited with the love of his life, Norma, where he longed to be for many years.

Born in Burke County, NC on February 25, 1938, he was the son of the late Vernon William Franklin and Minnie Lou Byrd Franklin.

Mr. Franklin was a veteran of the US Navy and a member of Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church. For numerous years, he was the bus driver for the senior citizen church group trips his wife planned. Bob worked in the furniture business for over 40 years and retired from Akzo. He was a hard-working man who loved being outside mowing or in his garden, enjoyed time at his camper at Lake James, or being out on his boat.

Those left to cherish his memory include his sons, Mike Franklin (Wen) and Sam Franklin (Annette); grandchildren, Brandon, Benjamin, Daniel, Lindsay, and Jayme; sister, Ann Detz; and numerous nephews and nieces.

In addition to his parents, Bob was preceded in death by his wife, Norma P. Franklin; daughter, Donna G. Franklin; and sisters, Jean F. Shaw and JoLynn Fillerup.

The graveside service will be held at 1 p.m., Wednesday, January 28, 2026 at Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church Cemetery with Rev. Bradley Johnson officiating. Military honors will be provided by the US Navy.

Memorial contributions may be made to Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church, P.O. Box 1159, Morganton, NC 28680 (morgantonprbc.com/give).

The family would like to express their appreciation to the staff of The Berkeley, especially to Felicia and her careteam staff for their compassion, kindness, and smiles given to Bob every day. The family would also like to thank the staff of Via Hospice, especially Tiffany, Ashley, and Katie for their patience and gentle guidance to the family.

Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.