Billy Francis Franklin

Billy F. Franklin, 95 of Arkansas City, KS, passed away on Thursday, October 22, 2020 at his home surrounded by his family.

Billy was born on June 23, 1925 in Twin Falls, Idaho the son of William and Bessie (Osburn) Franklin.  Billy was raised in Windyville, MO, where he graduated from high school.  After high school, he joined the United States Navy on November 21, 1945 and served during World War II on the USS Fall River. He was part of the atomic bomb testing on the Bikini Islands.  Billy was honorably discharged as Seaman Second Class and received two awards, The American Area and Victory Medal World War II on October 14, 1947.    On April 23, 1950 in Springfield, Missouri, he married the love of his life, Eunice M. Looney.   The couple have called Arkansas City home since 1967.   Billy worked as a truck driver for Montgomery Ward for 25 years before retiring in 1985.   After retirement, they enjoyed trips all over the United States, Canada and even Mexico on their motorcycle and RV.

Billy and his wife attended the First Baptist Church.  He was a member of the Gold Wing Motorcycle Association and earned a safe driver award every year for 25 years while truck driving.   His hobbies included: fishing, camping, gardening, traveling and wood carving.  

His family includes his wife of 70 years, Eunice of the home; his children; Randy and Diane Franklin of Enid, OK; Ron Franklin of Arkansas City and Cheryl and Steve Post of Arkansas City; his brothers, Wayne, John and Al Franklin all of Oregon; his 6 grandchildren; Stephanie, Amiee, Lesliee, Geoff and Danielle, Christi, Tara and Joel; 24 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren and his puppy, Holli.   He was preceded in death by his parents, 5 sisters and 2 brothers.      

Private family funeral services will be held at 1:00 P.M on Monday, October 26, 2020 at Shelley Family Funeral Home of Arkansas City.  Burial followed at Riverview Cemetery.   A memorial has been established in his name for the American Cancer Society and American Heart Association.

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