Joseph Henry Franklin Jr.

Retired Commander Seargant Major Joseph Henry Franklin Jr., 89, of Plantation, Florida passed away November 5, 2015. America lost a loyal patriot with the passing of retired Command Sergeant Major Joseph Henry Franklin, Jr., 89, of Plantation, Florida, on November 5, 2015. As a former member of the U.S. Navy and a career Army man, Joseph served his country proudly in World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. His bravery and dedication earned him this country's esteemed honor of the Silver Star. A staunch Republican and wonderful father, Joseph is survived by his children, Deborah L. Sidesinger of Plantation, FL; Joseph H. Franklin III and his wife, Cecilia, of De Soto, TX; and Melissa A. Clark and her husband, Wayne, of Plantation, FL. Another son, Terence L. Franklin, preceded him in passing. In addition, he will be missed dearly by his ex-wife, Nancy J. Franklin, of Plantation, FL. The absence of his storytelling prowess will also be keenly felt by his seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. A devoted son of his parents, Joseph Sr. and Josie Franklin, Joseph also leaves behind a loving sister, Frankie Cornwell, of Roanoke, VA, and a half-sister, Gloria Haggar of Reidsville, NC. His half-brother, Glenn Franklin, preceded him in passing. Blessed with a number of doting nieces and nephews, he was a favorite uncle to all. A life-long Ford enthusiast, Joseph enjoyed cars and driving, especially around Tennessee's Sequatchie Valley, the valley of his father's home, where he resided for many heart-felt years. An avid ball fan, he followed the Boston Braves to Atlanta, rooting for them whole-heartedly, win or lose. And, as an active brother in the Kansas Masonic Lodge, he supported charity work with a diligent passion. Though Joseph may have travelled the world serving and protecting others throughout his career, his later years were devoted to his beloved two dogs, his best friends, Jake and Ms. Brown. They will miss his love and companionship until they are all reunited at Rainbow Bridge. The family will receive friends on Monday, November 9, 2015 from 3:00 PM-4:00 PM at T.M. Ralph Plantation Funeral Home 7001 NW 4th Street Plantation, Florida 33317 A funeral service will be held Monday, November 9, 2015 at 4:00 PM at the funeral home. Inurnment will take place at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia. In his memory, donations may be made to missionunited.org or woundedwarriorproject.org Cremation arrangements by T.M. Ralph Plantation Funeral Home 7001 NW 4th Street Plantation, FL 33317 http://tmralph.com 954-587-6888"Our veteran warrior has passed away. called by the Supreme Commander over all. Today he has made his final roll call, Come. . . let us reverently bow and pray. For our valiant comrade who has fallen this day." -Michaud