James Tilson Franklin's Obituary
James “Jim” Tilson Franklin, affectionately known as Uncle Tilson or Papa Tilson, passed away on July 29, 2024, at his home in Wagoner, Oklahoma. Born on October 9, 1929, in Marshall, North Carolina, to Russell Bean and Hattie Jane (Rice) Franklin, Jim lived a life full of love and dedication to the Lord Jesus Christ, his family and friends.
He enlisted in the United States Navy Reserve in 1948 and transferred to the Air Force in 1950 during the Korean War. He was a B-36 mechanic in the 31st Strategic Recon Squadron. He was honorably discharged as A/1C (Airman First Class). He met the love of his life, Mary Louise Herrmann, at church while stationed at Travis Air Force Base. They married on December 19, 1954, in Fairfield, California. With the Lord's guidance, they had 69 1/2 years, serving the Lord together.
Jim was a talented carpenter, mechanic and pilot. He designed and built a wood-structure airplane that he enjoyed for many years, including flying over the Rocky Mountains to Phoenix. For over 60 years, Jim taught Bible classes at his church, sharing his faith and wisdom with many. Even in his later years, he tended to two organic gardens until he fell ill just two months ago.
Jim is survived by his loving wife, Mary Franklin; his children, David Franklin (and his wife Karen), Susan Pitts (and her husband David), and Donna Lock (and her husband J. Philip); his grandchildren, Jonathon Franklin (and his wife Jen), Esther Bleuet, Michael Pitts (and his wife Emma), Rachael Babcock (and her husband Daniel), Joshua Lock (and his wife Anne), Aaron Lock (and his wife Rachel); his great-grandchildren, Ember Babcock, Wade Lock, Charlotte Lock, Lucas Lock, Katherine Lock and Colin Lock. Preceding him, was his first grandchild, Danielle Pitts, stillborn.
Jim and his love for the Lord, will be missed by all who knew him.
A funeral service will be held at 10:00 AM on Saturday, August 10, 2024, at First Baptist Church, 401 NE 2nd Street, Wagoner, OK.
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