James Ron Franklin
August 16, 1942 ~ October 29, 2024
James Ronald “Ron” Franklin
One of the kindest, most generous souls to ever touch this earth was lost with the passing of James Ronald “Ron” Franklin on October 29, 2024. Ron’s life was devoted to family, community, art, and nature. He was a friend to all and worked to bring beauty to everyone he encountered.
Ron was born on August 16, 1942 in Valdese, North Carolina to James Calvin Franklin and Azilee Berry Franklin. He graduated from Valdese High School, attended Brevard College, and in 1966, received a Bachelor of Design, Sculpture and Fine Arts from East Tennessee State University.
Ron and Susan Mary Restuccia met in Cocoa Beach and wed in Winter Park, Florida on May 26, 1973. That same year, the couple moved to Gainesville where Ron began a 33-year career with the University of Florida, serving as Publications Director for the College of Engineering.
Ron was dedicated to protection of the natural environment. He was a highly accomplished nature photographer and an avid birder. He loved all music but especially jazz. He supported these passions through his volunteer efforts with the Artisans Guild, Friends of Jazz, and other community organizations.
Ron was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Barbara Wilkie. He is survived by his wife Susan, son Michael (Lindsey), daughter Holly, and granddaughter Livia. Other surviving family members include cousins Truett Martin and Esther Bolick (Johnny), niece Wendi Wilkie (Jerry Murphy), nephew Tracey Wilkie, and last but not least, Sammie, Ron’s loyal canine companion.
A celebration of Ron’s life will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers a donation in the name of James Franklin’s memory may be made to:
Haven-ET York Hospice Care Center
4200 NW 90th Blvd.
Gainesville, Fl 32606
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You brought so much joy to this world. We will miss you!
Franklin family I pray God's Holy Spirit will comfort you always. Mr. Franklin became a mentor and friend when I attended the University of Florida. He is one of the kindest people I have ever met with such a loving and caring spirit.
Ron was a dear friend and spread joy and beauty to all.
Ron a were high school classmates at Valdese High School. We were both members of Troupe #5 of the Boy Scouts and enjoyed several great camping trip with head Scoutmaster Tom Chapman. When he was at East Tennessee University we were room mates. RIP RON!
"One of the kindest, most generous souls to ever touch this earth…" One can ask for no better first line of a tribute. He made the world a better place and will be missed by all who loved and admired him.
Much love,
Rayanne
"He worked to bring beauty to all he encountered." And he accomplished this with his gentle spirit and beautiful photography. What a wonderful man. And hats off to his loving wife Sue who went the extra mile to make his last year on this Earth as fulfilling and comfortable as possible. A wonderful couple!
Ron was the one who could make anyone feel they were truly important in any part of life you encountered him. He always spoke the most encouraging words to me and my children and no one will ever compare to his kindness