Doris Huffman Franklin

Doris Huffman Franklin, 91, of Valdese, died unexpectedly on November 1, 2016. Born on September 23, 1925, she was predeceased by her husband of 56 years, John Earl Franklin, parents Frank and Minnie Huffman, and sisters Ruth Berry, Helen Tutherow, Frances Huffman and brother, Frank Huffman. She is survived by her daughters Nancy Daw (Harvey) of Morganton, Susan Brinkley (Tommy) of Winston-Salem, and Patricia Huffman (Bill) of Franklin, Tennessee, along with seven grandchildren, Matthew Sherrill (Catherine) of Watertown, MA, Lesley Hlad (Paul) of Durham, NC, Zach Daw of Omaha, NE, Wes Brinkley (Kate) of Birmingham, AL, Dr. Michael Brinkley (Amanda) of Johnson City, TN, Will Huffman of Durham, NC, and John Huffman of Knoxville, TN. In addition, she had 10 great-grandchildren.
Doris was born in Drexel, NC, where she was raised in the First Baptist Church and graduated from Drexel High School. She later graduated from Mars Hill College. She worked in the Drexel Post Office during WWII, and then married Earl in 1947 after he returned from the Navy. Earl and Doris moved to Hickory and then returned to Valdese in 1960 to establish Earl Franklin Motors. After Earl retired from the Ford dealership, Doris and Earl became apple farmers where Doris contributed in all areas, from picking apples, making apple cider and apple pies. Doris enjoyed working as a substitute teacher, although, her main job was being a homemaker, raising three daughters. She attended many Valdese High School and East Burke High School athletic events supporting their activities. She was also a Girl Scout leader for many years. Doris and Earl enjoyed going to Daytona races and playing golf. At one time, Doris was a member of 5 bridge clubs. A countless number of people have been the beneficiary of her delicious peanut butter fudge.
Doris was a long-time member of the First United Methodist Church of Valdese, having received the UMW Special Recognition Pin for her dedication in supporting the activities of the church. In addition, she was President of the UMC Women’s Society, a member and longtime chairman of Circle # 4. She enjoyed supporting the church’s mission along with participating in the weekly card games.
A private graveside service will be held on Saturday, November 5, 2016 at Drexel Memorial Park. The family will receive friends, Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. in the parlor of the First United Methodist Church, Valdese, NC. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. in the church sanctuary officiated by Pastor Jeff Sweeney. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First United Methodist Church, PO Box 637, Valdese, NC 28690. Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.