Joe R. Franklin

Joe R. Franklin, 64, of the Salem Community, died Thursday, August 14, 2008 at his residence. Born in Burke County, NC on January 7, 1944, he was the son of the late Ralph Alexander Franklin and Virgie Chapman Franklin. Joe attended Missionary Ridge Baptist Church.A loving husband, father, grandfather, and brother, he is survived by his wife, Pam Bowers Franklin of the home; a daughter, Michelle McKiernan and husband, Kevin; a son, Kelly Franklin; a granddaughter, Becca McKiernan; a sister, Shelia Garrison; and a brother, Wayne Franklin.In addition to his parents, Joe was preceded in death by a sister, Judy Watts.The graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, August 17, 2008 at Burke Memorial Park with Rev. Donald Lovelace officiating. The family will receive friends Saturday evening from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to Samaritan’s Purse, P.O. Box 3000, Boone, NC 28607 or to Burke Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690.