Visitation

June 18, 2026
1 p.m. - 2 p.m.

Service

June 18, 2026
2 p.m.

Committal

N/A

Shirley Ann Franklin, 79, of Morganton, NC, passed away Friday, June 12, 2026.

Born in Chattahoochee County, GA on December 14, 1946, she was the daughter of the late Joseph Wilfred Kelley and Kathrine Jackson Kelley.

Shirley was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother who loved spending time with her family. In her spare time, she enjoyed hunting for arrowheads and artifacts, and painting, and she was known for her painted flowerpots. She also enjoyed antique shopping.

Those left to cherish her memory include her husband, Melvin Douglas Franklin; daughters, Patricia Jean Ross (William) and Carol Franklin Cook (Brian); grandchildren, Randy Keith Franklin, Barry Lynn White, and Kasey Nicole Franklin; great-grandchildren, Hayden Tester, Karson Sellers, Trevor White, and Trinity Franklin; great-great-grandson, Malcom Sellers; and a sister, Mary Jo Reece.

The family will receive friends from 1 to 2 p.m., Thursday, June 18, 2026 at Sossoman Funeral Home. The memorial service will follow at 2 p.m. in the Colonial Chapel of the funeral home with Pastor Brad Browning officiating.

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

Tribute Wall

Leave a tribute for Shirley Ann Franklin.

Black Candle
Blue Candle
Beige Candle
Burgundy Candle
White Candle

Shirley you were taken from us to soon, after all the years we have spent together it still wasn't enough,now your pain and suffering has all been taken away and you are dancing with the angels, we all love you and miss you

—Maybelle Lassiter
Prev