Eugene Randall Franklin, 83, passed away at 5:45 a.m., Tuesday, May 20, 2025 at Evercare of Jerseyville.
Born on September 11, 1941, in Rosewood Heights, Illinois, he was the son of the late Samuel and Vivian (Perkins) Franklin. From a young age, He learned the value of hard work, integrity, and simple pleasures—values that carried through every chapter of his life.
He spent the majority of his working career at Olin Corporation, where he was employed as a Metal Worker. He was proud of his craft and committed to providing for his family. After retirement, he continued to find joy in staying active. Whether it was stacking firewood, going to auctions and yard sales, or just being outdoors, He had a tireless energy that made you wonder if he ever truly stopped moving.
On October 22, 1988, he married Linda Williams, and together they built a beautiful life grounded in love, laughter, and a shared appreciation for the everyday moments that matter most. Their home was often filled with the warmth of family, the scent of something sweet in the air, and an animal nearby —he loved all animals, and developed a particular fondness for cats later in life.
He was a devoted husband, a proud father and stepfather, a loyal friend, and a regular at McDonald’s, where he was a cherished member of the morning “Coffee Crew.”
He had a big sweet tooth and a bigger heart. He loved a good bargain, a good burn pile, and the company of those he loved most. He was as comfortable sharing a quiet moment on the porch as he was cracking a joke around the table. He lived with a down-to-earth joy and left an impression on everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him.
Surviving are his wife of 36 years, Linda Franklin of Jerseyville; his children, Tracy (Kevin) Farris of Otterville and Charlotte Conway of Flint, Michigan; step-children, Kim (Jeff) Runion of Meadowbrook, Mark Chappell of Kane, Richard (Marci) Chappell of Macon, and Malinda (Jeff) Kemper of Jerseyville; fourteen grandchildren; twenty-five great-grandchildren; a brother and sister-in-law, Don (Vivian) Franklin of Fort Myers, Florida; and a sister, Sue Trinkle of Brenham, Texas.
He was preceded in death by his parents and will be reunited with them in eternal rest.
Graveside services will be held at Borlin Cemetery in Carrollton on Thursday, May 29, 2025 at 12:00 p.m. with Pastor Thomas Williams officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Borlin Cemetery, in care of Crawford Funeral Home, 1308 State Highway 109, Jerseyville, IL 62052, who has been entrusted with arrangements.
Memories and tributes may be shared at www.crawfordfunerals.com.
