Hayward Franklin Sr.

Hayward Franklin Sr., departed this life on Monday, August 31, 2020 at West Jefferson Hospital in Marrero, La.  He was 70 years old.  He was born on January 7, 1950, to the union of the late Edward and Henrietta Bolden Franklin in New Orleans, La.

Brother Franklin received his educational foundation in Jefferson Parish School System and graduated from John H. Martyn Sr., High School.  He then continued his education at Grambling State university.  Bro. Franklin accepted Christ as a young man at the age of 25 years old and was baptized at First Zion Baptist Church by Reverend Norwood Thompson Sr.

On August 3, 1974, he was united in holy matrimony to Joyce Marie Johnson.  From this union, two children were born, Dana Marie Franklin, and Hayward Franklin Jr.  In 1977 Bro. Franklin joined Fellowship Baptist Church, pastored by Rev. Moses S. Gordon II.  In 2010, Bro. Franklin joined Franklin Avenue Baptist Church, pastored by Rev. Fred Luter Jr.

Bro. Franklin was a great football player and an even bigger fan.  He was a defensive tackle and also played the center position.  He played for Ralph Bunch Jr. High School. John H. Martyn Sr., High School, Grambling State University, and Semi Pro Football for Kenner City Chiefs. 

He was employed by National Tea Company while playing Semi – Pro Football.  He later became an entrepreneur and stated Franklin Transportation Services.  He acted as a mentor to hundreds of kids during a 20-year period.  He then opened up a second business, Franklin Supply and Services.  Both businesses thrived until Hurricane Katrina, which forced Franklin into retirement. 

Bro. Franklin was a terrific father and was very devoted to his wife and children.  He was always about family.  He loved family life, and wanted his legacy to continue.  He always said, If I’m not living, be sure to tell my grandchildren I love them.”  Bro. Franklin was blessed to live long enough to meet both grandchildren, Hayward Franklin III, and Kobe Dwayne Franklin.  On his death bed, his wife, daughter and son stood near him and made sure his love was sent to his grandsons.

Hayward leaves to cherish his memory to his devoted and loving wife of 46 years, Mrs. Joyce Marie Johnson Franklin.  Children Dana Marie Franklin, and Hayward Franklin Jr (Khalilah).  Two grandsons, Hayward Franklin III, and Kobe Dwayne Franklin.  He enjoyed talking and reliving memories with his siblings, Rev. Eugene Franklin and Marelean Mitchell (Leonard) of Pensacola Florida.  His best friend Wayne Wilson of Arlington Texas, whom he spent hours talking about sports and considered a brother.  His in laws, Mary M. Jones, and Maniel Myers (Bessie) of New Orleans. 

Hayward is preceded in death by his siblings Parelean Cox, Cleo Franklin, LeRoy Franklin, and Ted Franklin. 

Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend the funeral service on Friday, September 11, 2020 at Franklin Avenue Baptist Church located at 8282 I-10service Rd. New Orleans, La 70127 at 10a.m.  Pastor Fred Luter Jr., officiating.  The visitation will begin at 9a.m.  Interment will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in New Orleans, La.

Due to COVID – 19, everyone in attendance MUST wear a face mask or other proper facial covering and practice social distancing.   

Funeral planning entrusted to ROBINSON FAMILY FUNERAL HOME 9611 LA-23 BELLE CHASSE, LA, 70037.  (504) 208 – 2119. 

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