The Richmond News, Nov. 1, 2024

Ervin Franklin

Aug. 9, 1943-Oct. 25, 2024 Ervin Lee Franklin, 81, a resident of Richmond, passed away Friday, Oct. 25, 2024, at his home, surrounded by his family. Ervin was born Aug. 9, 1943, in Kansas City, the son of Robert and Francis (Davis) Franklin. He was united in marriage on June 12, 1965, to Mary Anne (McGregor) Franklin, who preceded him in death on March 24, 1983. Ervin is survived by his wife, Sheryl Kaye (Waterman) Franklin, whom he married on Feb. 24, 1984.

Other survivors include his sister, Betty Prichard; brother-in-law, Ronald Hall; daughter, Shelly (Kevin) Jeffries; and two sons, Shannon (Becky) Franklin and Michael Karl. In addition, he’s survived by his grandchildren, Bailee (Kody) Wainscott, Maci Jeffries, Kanon (Haley) Franklin, Mackenna (Dylan) Caldwell, Sadie Clariday, Max Clariday, Kayla (Robert) Nibarger, Tucker Karl, Brodie Karl, Sara Hall and Christopher (Heather) Hall; and great-grandchildren, Adalynn Wainscott, Hallie Wainscott, Cayden Nibarger, Blaine Nibarger, Hadley Nibarger, Delilah, Heidi Jo, Lilian, Dayton Palier, Bryer Hall and Kamden Hall. Ervin also is survived by his special friends, Torri Wiegand and Kristy (Justin) McBee, and her daughter London.

In addition to his parents and first wife, Ervin was preceded in death by his sister, Roberta Lucas.

Ervin dedicated much of his life to his career and family. He served in the U.S. Army. He worked for Meatcutters Local 2 for 47 years when he retired. He then returned to work, serving the Richmond R-XVI School District.

Activities Ervin loved included fishing, hunting and attending auctions. He also enjoyed watching the Chiefs and going to races. Most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his family, his dogs and his grandchildren.

Ervin was more than a hard-working individual; he was a man of integrity who was loved by his family and friends. His warmth and kindness will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

The family suggests memorial donations in Ervin’s honor to either Mack Attack (for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation) or Shirkey Hospice. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home; 507 E. Main St.-P.O. Box 190; Richmond, MO 64085. A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Nov. 1, in Richmond Memory Gardens.

Please visit www.thurmanfuneralhome.com to leave memories of Ervin for the family.