Francis Edward Franklin, Jr., affectionately known as "Frank Franklin" or "Babe," passed away on Friday, November 21, 2025, at the age of 80. Babe was born on February 14, 1945, in Poteet, Texas, to Francis Edward Franklin, Sr. and Elnora Marley Franklin.

A lifelong educator and mentor, Babe dedicated his career to shaping young minds and serving his community. He graduated from Cotulla High School in 1962 and earned a Bachelor of Science in Physics and Math from Southwest Texas State in 1967. He later received his Master of Science in Education from Our Lady of the Lake University in San Antonio.

Babe began his teaching career at Job Corps, Camp Gary, San Marcos (1965–1975), then taught math at Stockdale High School (1975–1977), and served as High School Principal at Stockdale ISD (1977–1982). His commitment to education continued as School Superintendent of McMullen County ISD from 1982 until his retirement in 2011.

Beyond his professional roles, Babe was instrumental in creating the McMullen County Honorary Educations Scholarship, now named the Frank Franklin Honorary Educators Scholarship. He played a key role in establishing the McMullen ISD Foundation for Educational Excellence and was respected statewide for his expertise in school finance. Babe was also one of the original organizers of the McMullen County Livestock Show Scholarship and spearheaded efforts to build housing for teachers in Tilden. His generosity extended to helping numerous families with rabbits at the livestock show.

Babe was a devoted member of the Fowlerton Baptist Church and served a year as President of the Tilden Lions Club. In 2016, the Tilden Rodeo was held in his honor. He was recognized as ESC-2 Superintendent of the Year, named an Honorary State Farmer by the FFA, and received an Honorary American FFA Degree.

Throughout his life, Babe was known for his dedication, kindness, and unwavering support for students, staff, and the broader community. His legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched and the positive impact he made in education.

Babe is survived by his wife of 52 years, Donna Franklin; sons, Frank Franklin, III (Addie), Jesse Franklin, and Tony Franklin (Shasta); grandchildren, Leighann Franklin, Archer Hanson, Sullivan Franklin, Emeline Franklin, and Dorothea Franklin; brother-in-law and best friend, Pat West; brothers, Harvey Franklin, Bill Franklin, and Wayne Franklin; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Robert Cecil Franklin; uncle, Robert S. "Bob" Franklin; sisters-in-law, Judy Franklin, Jane Anderson, and Susan Perkins; nephew, Bobby Franklin; and best friend, Mike Adkins.

He will be deeply missed by family, friends, colleagues, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Services are scheduled for Saturday, November 29, 2025, at Hurley Funeral Home, with a visitation from 9:00 am until 11:00 am followed by the service at 11am. Burial will be at Hilltop Cemetery in Tilden. Fellowship and a meal afterwards at the Tilden Community Center.

The pallbearers will be: Roy Franklin, Keith Franklin, Jase Franklin, Dylan Franklin, Harvey Franklin, Jr., and Pat West, Jr.

Honorary Pallbearers will be: Rodney Franklin, Harvey Franklin, III, Ben Thake, Josh Thake, Jerry Perkins, Jon Anderson, Darwin Avant, Lynn Boyd, Mark McAfee, Tommy Garcia, and Joe Albert Yanas.