Obituary of Gary Woodrow Franklin, Jr.
In Loving Memory of Gary Woodrow Franklin Jr.
October 4, 1960 – October 23, 2025
Gary Woodrow Franklin Jr., age 65, of Sterling, Michigan, passed away peacefully in his sleep on October 23, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Born on October 4, 1960, in Beeville, Texas, to the late Gary Woodrow Franklin and Judith Lee Franklin, Gary spent most of his life in Sterling, Michigan. From an early age, he was drawn to the beauty of the great outdoors, a place where he found both peace and joy. Whether it was a quiet morning on the water fishing, an autumn day spent hunting in the woods, or an evening of friendly competition at the local bowling alley, Gary found happiness in life’s simple pleasures and in the company of those he cared for. His love for the outdoors was matched only by the love he held for his family and friends, who were truly the center of his world.
That same dedication and integrity carried into his professional life, working for many years as a local truck driver in the oil field industry, where he was respected for his dedication, reliability, and easygoing nature. His strong work ethic and warm spirit left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
A loving husband and father, Gary is survived by his mother, Judith Lee Franklin, his wife, Marchlene Franklin, and his brother, Brett Franklin, alongside his sister-in-law, Charlotte (Kirt) Franklin.
Gary's legacy continues through his children: William Bentley, Victoria (Derek) Strzelecki, Ernesto (Connie Barnes) Galan III, Shawn (Shelly Infante) Galan, and Christopher (Elizabeth) Galan.
His grandchildren: Quentin Sanchez, Sagedra (Nick Kitchen) Caspers, Fayth Martin, Jalyn Bentley, Madisyn Galan, Lissa Danks, Ernesto Galan IV, Job Galan, Blake Bentley, Eli Galan, Lydia Galan, Grayson Galan, Genevieve Strzelecki, also survive him, along with many cherished great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. Gary was a guiding light in their lives, and with each of them, he shared unique and cherished memories.
Gary was preceded in death by his grandparents, Mathew and Katie Ellison, his father, Gary Woodrow Franklin, and his brother, Kirt Franklin, who welcomed him home with open arms.
Those who knew Gary will always remember his kind spirit, his sense of humor, and his deep love for the outdoors. His presence will be deeply missed, but the memories he created will live on forever in the hearts of his family and friends.
In accordance with Gary’s wishes, cremation has taken place. The family will hold a memorial service at a later date, where friends and loved ones will be invited to gather and celebrate his life.
In lieu of flowers, the family invites those who wish to honor Gary’s memory to make a donation to the Toni and Trish House. Your kindness, prayers, and support bring great comfort and mean more than words can express. To sign online guestbook, visit www.cremationsocietymidmi.com Arrangements made with the Cremation Society of Mid Michigan.
Forever Loved, Never Forgotten.
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