757.628.1000

Robert Ernest Franklin


Sunrise: February 4, 1941

Sunset: September 11, 2021

Robert Ernest Franklin was born February 4, 1941 to the late Mr. Ernest Franklin & Gerthel Woodard Franklin. He passed peacefully at home on September 11, 2021. He was 80 years of age.

Sergeant Major Franklin served 30 years in the United States Army and was a Veteran of the Vietnam War. He was awarded the Bronze Medal, Purple Heart, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal (5 awards), Good Conduct Medal (9 awards), National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Metal (3 campaign stars) and numerous service and Campaign awards. He also earned the Combat Infantryman’s Badge and Drill Sergeant Identification Badge.

Robert is preceded in death by three brothers; Joseph, Clyde, and Ernest Franklin Jr. and three sisters; Ada Robinson, Darlene Boone and Gerthel Hardeman.

He leaves to cherish his memory and legacy his loving wife of 25 years, Elizabeth Franklin, son Robert Franklin Jr, stepdaughter Denise Cunningham (Kevin), stepson Roshard Bray, three grandsons; Jordan, Harrison, and Winston Franklin and two Godchildren; Montrell Sutton and Lashika Holley. He also leaves 3 brothers; John, Forrest, and Cornelius Franklin and five sisters; Shirley Edwards, Linda Franklin, Celestine Jones, Arlene Franklin, and Annette Franklin. He also leaves a host of nieces and nephews.

Robert loved serving his country in the U.S. Army and considered it an honor and privilege. His other loves included, camping, dancing, listening to his jazz music, sharing war stories and spending time with his family and friends. Everyone always knew where they stood with him, as he had a unique gift to identify individual’s character.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association (Alz.org-Robert Ernest Franklin)

*Viewing* Thursday, September 16, 2021 2:00pm - 6:00pm Metropolitan Funeral Service 5605 Portsmouth Boulevard Portsmouth, VA 23701 Service WATCH SERVICE LIVE ONLINE Saturday, September 18, 2021 11:00am Metropolitan Funeral Service Portsmouth Chapel Interment Arlington National Cemetery Arlington, VA *Masks Required*

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Condolences(12)

  1. reply
    Mary Bryant says

    Your family is in my thoughts and prayers. I am so very sorry for your loss. I pray the Lord comforts you during this difficult time.

    Love,
    Mary Bryant
    Coworker to Denise Cunningham

  2. reply
    MONIQUE EDWARDS says

    Praying for our family during these difficult times.
    Uncle Bob is gone from our site, but never from our hearts. RIP

    Monique

  3. reply
    Gary McIntosh and Crystal McIntosh says

    Sending our condelences and prayers to the family , friends and associates. RIH and Salute Mr. Franklin.

  4. reply
    JB says

    You have my heartfelt sympathy in this most difficult times. Prayers for you all that you be strengthen in the days to come. Sending hugs

  5. reply
    Megan White says

    Denise,

    I am so sorry for your loss. You and your family are in my thoughts & prayers.

    • reply
      Elizabeth Franklin says

      Thank you so much for the prayers, thoughts, condolences, flowers, phones call and the heartfelt messages during this difficult time with the passing of my husband. Our entire family thanks everyone for the visit and support. God bless everyone. 🙏

  6. reply
    Karen hardeman says

    Prayers and deepest condolences to my husband and his family at this difficult time..

  7. reply
    Tara Spivey says

    My deepest and heartfelt condolences to you and the family! Sending love and prayers ❤️🙏🏽

  8. reply
    Belinda L. says

    I’m so sorry for your loss, God didn’t want him to suffer any longer. You and the entire family are forever in my heart, thoughts and prayers. Love you much

  9. reply
    Paula Horne says

    Liz, No one could have cared for Robert better than you di, and I’m so sorry to hear about his passing. I hope you are comforted by your many happy memories together. Please know that you’re in my heart.

  10. reply
    LISA MCKINNON says

    I am so sorry for your loss. Prayers for you and your family. May Robert rest in peace and may your family find comfort in your memories.

  11. reply
    Tony hardeman says

    Extraordinary tuff never imagine that day would come you wouldn’t be here anymore all the fun time’s we had when I stay with you in Pittsburgh gone physically but you in my heart forever ♥ rest easy uncle bobby

    From you’re nephew tony…

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