January 21, 2022, 76, Goldsboro –
Joseph Weldon Franklin, Jr., 76, passed away Friday, January 21, 2022 at UNC Lenoir Health Care in Kinston. Born in Durham County on May 18, 1945, he was the son of the late Joseph Weldon, Sr. and Helen Butler Franklin.
Joey is survived by his wife of 45 years, Betty Grantham Franklin; sons, Joseph Weldon Franklin, III and wife, Tiffany, of Grantham, and David Phillip Franklin and wife, Claire, of Wilmington; and grandchildren, Gabriel Franklin, Parker Franklin, Danielle Franklin, and Carter Franklin. He is also survived by his friend who was like a brother, Charlie Tew.
Joey was a 1963 graduate of Goldsboro High School. He later proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1966 – 1970, including an 11-month tour of duty aboard the USS Kitty Hawk aircraft carrier. Following his stint in the Navy, Joey furthered his education and graduated from Jacksonville University in Florida in 1972. Upon completion of college, Joey began his career in banking, the majority of his career was with East Coast Federal Savings Bank. He took great pleasure in helping families achieve their dreams of homeownership. Joey was a member of the BPOE #139 Goldsboro Elks Lodge. He was a member of Pine Forest United Methodist Church, although unable to attend in recent years due to his declining health. Joey loved his family so much and was always bragging on his grandkids. He enjoyed spending time at Atlantic Beach, playing golf, saltwater fishing, shagging, and listening to Beach Music. He always looked forward to reunions with his Goldsboro High School classmates.
A service to celebrate Joey’s life will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Friday, January 28, 2022 in the chapel of Seymour Funeral Home with Rev. Billy A. Olsen officiating. The family will receive friends during the hour prior to the service at the funeral home.
Joey’s family would like to acknowledge the exemplary care he received from the staff at the NC State Veterans Home for the past two months and the staff of UNC Lenoir Health Care for the excellent care and compassion they provided in Joey’s final days.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be mailed to the National Fragile X Foundation, 1861 International Drive, Suite 200, McLean, VA 22102 or online at https://fragilex.org/donate/ in memory of Joey and in honor of his beloved grandson, Carter or to the NC State Veterans Home, 2150 Hull Road, Kinston, NC 28504.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home & Cremation Service. Online condolences may be expressed at www.seymourfuneralhome.com.
