Stephen Edward Franklin 60 of Morganton passed away unexpectedly Thursday January 30th 2025. He was born June 8th 1964 in Wayne County, Michigan a son of the late Mary Rosalie Franklin. In addition to his mother he was preceded in death by his grandparents Hugh W and Emile Whisnant Franklin Aunts, Nellie Carswell, Gladys Vaughan, Bessie Mulwee, Ruby Propst, a special close Aunt Martha Blanchard uncles Carl Franklin and James (Bo) Franklin cousin Darlene Pakkala and a special close cousin Dwayne Ross
He is survived by a Aunt Betty Sue Allen cousins Kathy Finley(Rick)and son Gregory Dale , Kimberly Baldwin (David) and children Austin Jaynes and Gabby Reep of Morganton ,Debbie Davidson of Texas, Elvis Vaughan of SC, and three specially close cousins Terri Lynne Taylor and her sons Timothy Norris and Tyler Norris of the home, Pamela Lynne Carswell and daughter Jennifer Austin, and Leslie Paige Ross and son Hayden Dwayne Chapman of Morganton Plus a lot of friends that the family wish’s they could name them all
Steve was the kind of person you never heard speak a bad word about anyone. He was gentle, kind, and would help anyone that needed it. He had a heart as big as the ocean and would give a person the shirt off his back if they needed it. There wasn’t a person that met him that didn’t like him. He had that personality that everyone got along with. If he wasn’t outside working around the house in the yard you could find him on a river bank somewhere chilling with friends. He would go out of his way to help someone if they needed help. He was loved by many and will be missed by all.
The family at this time request your understanding in holding off on a service and will notify people later of date and time of the memorial service.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
Tribute Wall
Leave a tribute for Stephen Edward Franklin.






Steve I don’t remember a day of my life you haven’t been a part of. From small children to adults we’ve been side by side in life. At my house you were always a fixed fixture whether it was just hanging out, eating, or watching tv. You were always there. Not one holiday went by without your presence. We were first cousins but it always felt like brother and sister. Your presence will be missed for years to come and you will always be thought of and loved by all. I love you brother we lost a good one the day you left. RIP and fly soar high and free.

I considered Steve as one of my very good friends. We had some real good times together on the river. Steve you will be greatly missed by us river crew and you will never be forgotten. You will live in our memories forever. Good bye my friend. We will always love you and miss you. The Gragg Family!

Uncle Steve, From my first memories at my grandparents house to the very last one, you were always there. Always laughing and cutting up with us and letting us know that you were not just Steve, but always Uncle Steve. You were one of Jeff's closest friends and I hope you are reunited on a river bank reeling in some monsters and laughing about days gone by. Rest easy until we see you again.