Bennie Franklin

Bennie Lamar Franklin was born in Cincinnati, Ohio on January 11, 1956 to Benjamin Lamar and Wilma Nell (nee Roundtree) Franklin who preceded him in death.

He graduated from Hughes High School in 1974 and immediately starting working for Deaconess Hospital in Cincinnati. During his employment of 12 years, he was very proud that he never missed a day and was never late, until his health began to fail.

Bennie was a very humorous person and had an infectious laugh. He had a "heart of gold" and would do anything to help. Even though he suffered with some health challenges, he was fun to have around. He could really make you laugh.

During his illness, he faithfully attended programs at the Central Community Health Board (CCHB), traveling daily by bus, and was well-loved there. He lived in a group home for many years and was very nurturing and helpful to his fellow housemates. He was especially concerned about Hugo and took good care of him. He took doing his "chores" very seriously and was always making sure he was doing that which he was responsible. He would always say, "I got to get my chores done first."

He had a very special bond with his brother-in-law and consistently referred to him by his full name, "Vernon Coulter, Jr." Vernon spent a lot of time with him, mowing the lawn together, sitting in the yard listening to music, and shopping in thrift stores. Whenever Vernon picked him up, even if his sister came along, Bennie always said, "I'm going with my 'brother-in-law." Bennie loved music and always carried his "boombox" with him.

Bennie leaves to cherish his memory, his two sisters, Barbara Selene Coulter (Vernon) of Cincinnati, OH and Yvonne Denise Franklin, his devoted brother-in-law, Vernon Coulter Jr., two nephews, Santino B. Lambert and Semaray B. Lambert (BJ), and his great-nieces, Kaylee Maye Lambert, Carmyn Pryor, and Kinley Riga. He is also survived by his very large "extended" family and many friends.