Ernest F. Franklin, of Mount Upton, passed away at his home on December 8, 2020. Ernest was born in Georgetown on May 29, 1942 to the late Wallace Franklin and Fanny May Potter Franklin VanDerwalker.
Ernest served his country in the US Army during the Vietnam War in 1968-1971. He returned to the Norwich area and worked for the Chenango County Highway Department, retiring after 40 years of service.
Ernest is survived by his wife of 57 years, Mary B. Franklin; his children, Peggy Dennis and Thomas Hicks, of Edmenton, KY, Connie Davis and Vance Lester, of Norwich, Denise and Gregory Cooper, of Katy, TX, and Ernest F. Franklin II; his unofficially adopted daughter, Fransheska and Geoffery Parker, of Morris; his sisters, Virginia Monday, of Norwich, Janice Scott, of Plymouth, Gladys and Preston Branagan, of Plymouth, and Gretchen and Thomas Gage, of Mount Upton; his brother, Donald VanDerwalker and Norma King, of Ramer, AL; his grandchildren, Gregory and Abby Dennis, Jr., Sean Dennis, Caleb Dennis, Amber Dennis, Robert Howell, Brittney and Hank Wilson, Ethan Franklin, Mackenzie Simpkins, Evan Simpkins, Blake Simpkins, and Wallace J. Franklin; his step-grandchildren, Alexander Parker, Austin Parker, Shawn Cooper, and Carle Cooper; six great-grandchildren; three step great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends. In addition to his parents, Ernest was predeceased by his 16 year old grandson, Jeffrey R. Franklin.
At Ernest’s request, there will be no formal calling hours or funeral services. A celebration of life is planned for a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to R.J. Fahy Funeral Home.