Benjamin Tracy Franklin

Benjamin Tracy Franklin, of Jamestown, passed away on August 17, 2025, at Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital, surrounded by his loving wife and family.  He was 75 years of age.

Born May 28, 1950, in Jamestown, to the late Hershel and Elizabeth Chapman Franklin, he was a carpenter and farmer, but most importantly, he was a man devoted to his family. Benjamin was a beloved husband, father, brother, and friend, but his favorite title was “Papa.”  He often bragged about his ten grandchildren, and his eleven-and-counting great grandchildren. Benjamin found joy in simple pleasures like sitting around with friends and family telling stories, aggravating those he loved most, sharing laughter with everyone around him, and of course, spoiling his grandbabies.

He is survived by his loving wife of almost 55 years, Treva Grider Franklin, of Jamestown; two daughters, Tracy (and Mark) Hadley, of Columbia, and Melissa (and Bobby) Smith, of Jamestown; son, Stacey (and Kim) Franklin, of Jamestown; ten grandchildren, Skylar, Casey, Blake, Josh, Ashley, Jessica, Brianna, Elizabeth, Tyler, and Ava; eleven great grandchildren, Addison, Ayden, Liam, Huxley, Paisley, Colton, Stetson, Lakyn, London, Camden, Evelyn, and one on the way, Bransen Lee; brother, Carthel (and Donna) Franklin, of Jamestown; sister, Rosemary Murray, of Jamestown; and many other family members and friends who will cherish his memory.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by three brothers, Gilbert Franklin, Midnight Franklin, and Arnold Franklin; and two sisters, Mona Grider, and Anna Faye Franklin.

Benjamin’s legacy will live on in the stories he told, the laughter he sparked, and the love he gave.

Graveside services are at 6:00 PM Monday, August 18, 2025, at Miller Cemetery, in Jamestown.

A memorial gathering will be held for family and friends at 375 Williams Road in Jamestown, beginning at 12:00 PM, and continuing until time of graveside services.

Arrangements for Benjamin Tracy Franklin are entrusted to Bernard Funeral Home.  An online guestbook is available at www.bernardfuneralhome.com.

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