Ray A. Franklin Sr.

We are heartbroken to announce the passing of Ray Albert Franklin Sr. of Level Plains, Alabama, who peacefully departed this life on Monday, November 25, 2024. He died at home, his favorite place, surrounded by his beloved wife and family. Ray was preceded in death by his parents Timothy and Viola Franklin.

 Ray, a native of Illinois, was a man of great courage and honor. At seventeen, he bravely volunteered for the Army, serving a tour in the Vietnam War. His honorable career, spanning over 23 years, took him across the globe, and he rose to the rank of Master Sergeant, embodying the values of duty, honor, and selfless service. 

Ray was a loving, devoted, and (occasionally) cantankerous family man. He is cherished by his wife Carla, daughter Laura, son Ray Jr., and three granddaughters Jordan, Logan, and Mae. He was immensely proud of his roles as husband, father, and grandfather, nurturing bonds that will forever be a source of strength, love, and happiness for his family. His warm spirit and generous heart also extended to his community, where he was actively involved in his church, Love's Way, contributing his time and talents to serve others. 

Ray found solace and joy in the great outdoors. He loved riding and caring for horses, running rabbits, and coon hunting. He often shared these experiences with family and with friends who became like family to him. Ray also loved music, particularly gospel music and the voices of country greats like Merle Haggard, Tom T. Hall, and Charlie Daniels. He liked to drink root beer and eat butter pecan ice cream. Blue was his favorite color, and his favorite person was his beloved wife of nearly 60 years, Carla. He proposed to her on a Ferris wheel in 1964, and their dearest friends are Ralph and Joann Swanger. 

Ray Albert Franklin Sr. leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, courage, and devotion that will resonate through the lives he touched. He is deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. 

Ray's life will be celebrated at 2:00 PM, Monday, December 2, 2024, at Searcy Funeral Home and Crematory Chapel, with Rev. Charles Jones officiating. Burial will follow at First Baptist Church Level Plains Cemetery with Searcy Funeral Home & Crematory directing. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 1:00 PM until service time. Family and friends are invited to share their memories and honor his remarkable journey, and the family requests donations be sent to the Wounded Warrior Project. 

Rest in peace, Ray (Dad, Grandpa). Despite your absence, memories of your love and courage bring us joy. As you would always say, we love you too much. We'll see you again.