SFC (Ret) Charles Edward Franklin

SFC (Ret) Charles Edward Franklin, son of the late James Walter Cosey and Kathleen (Powell) Franklin, was born January 16, 1962 in Clarksdale, Mississippi. Charles grew up in Clarksdale until the age of 13 and then moved to St. Louis, Missouri. In 1980, Charles enlisted in the United States Army and served his country faithfully until his retirement in 2000 after 20 years of service. He had attained the rank of Sergeant First Class. For his faithful service, Charles earned several awards and commendations; some of which include: Army Commendation Medal 93rd Award), Army Achievement Medal (4th Award), Good Conduct Medal (5th Award), National Defense Service Medal, NCO Professional Development Ribbon (w/num 3), Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon (w/num 4), Sharpshooter Marksmanship Badge (Rifle M-16), Marksman Marksmanship Badge (Rifle M-16), and Drill Sergeant Identification Badge. While serving in the Army, Charles obtained his GED and later received his Associate’s Degree from Central Texas College while stationed at Fort Leonard Wood. After retiring from the Army, Charles began working as a civilian at Fort Leonard Wood. He was in charge of security for CDTF (Chemical Defense Training Facility) as Human Resources. On January 30, 1982 in St. Louis, Missouri, Charles married the love of his life, Minnie Lee Alexander. They shared over 29 years of marriage together and five children: Charles Jr, LaToshia, William, Genever, and Geneva. In his spare time, Charles enjoyed mowing his lawn, and reading. He especially enjoyed watching Sunday football with his grandson William. He treasured those times that he could play with his grandchildren. As a young man, Charles accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as his Savior. He was very active in his church, New Beginnings Revival Center and was Pastor Biggs’ right hand man (Teacher’s Pet) for the School of Prophets. He served as a minister for the church and loved his church family. Charles went home to be with his Lord Saturday, December 10, 2011 in his home after a long bout with cancer having attained the age of 49 years, 10 months and 24 days. He will be sadly missed by all those that knew and loved him. Charles leaves to cherish his memory his wife, Minnie of the home; five children: Charles E. Franklin, Jr. (Megan), LaToshia Webb (Derrick), William Alexander, Genever Alexander (Darrin) and Geneva Dawson (Vincent) all of Waynesville, MO; three siblings: Willie Franklin (Rose) of Kennett, MO, Clarence Franklin (Michelle) of St. Louis, MO and Martha Jean Franklin (Calvin) of St. Louis, MO; four grandchildren: Kiesha Martin, La’Niyah Webb, William Hamilton and Derrick Webb, Jr.; several nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. In addition to his parents, Charles was preceded in death by one sister: Shirley and two brothers: William and Alvin Franklin. Going Home services were held at 12:00 p.m. Friday, December 16, 2011 in the New Beginnings Revival Center of Waynesville with Pastor Dan Biggs officiating. Soloist James Campbell sang “Something about the Name of Jesus”, Soloist Charlotte Wilson sang “His Eye Is on the Sparrow” and Soloist Jackie Galloway sang “Let It Rain”. Serving as escorts were the United States Army. Burial with military honors followed in the Missouri Veterans Cemetery – Fort Leonard Wood. Military honors were provided by the United States Army of Fort Leonard Wood. Services were under the direction of Memorial Chapels and Crematory of Waynesville / St. Robert.