Orville Franklin

May 17, 1935 - March 30, 2010

Orville Eugene Franklin entered this world on May 17, 1935. His parents, Eddie and Lena welcomed him as their 4th child. Orville was raised throughout the South, living in Oklahoma and Texas. He enjoyed the farmlands with his brothers Ed, Bob, Kenneth, Jim, and John and sisters Edina, Theida, Fay and Ann. Orville married Allene Lawrence and moved west to California, then to Arizona, where he spent the rest of his life. They had four children Eddie, Gene, Carolyn and Donna. Orville also raised Dale Riggs, who he always loved as much as his sons. During these years he worked hard as a cement mason and belonged to the local union. Orville was blessed with five beautiful grandchildren. He was very sad to lose his youngest, Lisa at a very young age, but has been delighted in watching Stacy, Vikki, Farest, and Jesse blossom into promising young adults. They have extended his legacy with his great-grandchildren Marina, Justice, Brhianna, and Liberty. His face would light up like no other when he was able to spend time with them and teach them what he had learned throughout his life. Orville spent the last 34 years with his loving wife Joyce. They shared a wonderful life. While living in Laveen, they enjoyed caring for their multitudes of animals and absorbing the beautiful scenes the South Mountain provides. Once moving to Dewey they continued to share their bond. Each Spring they would begin to plant their garden. Orville would be so proud of the vegetables he would grow and claim he had the hottest peppers. He was raised planting, continued it throughout his life and taught his great grandchildren how fun it can be to have the earth provide for you. These are lessons they will take with them as they to grow. Orville had a love for tractors. Throughout their home and property there are signs to confirm that. Whether it is the wagon wheels lining the fence, the remodel tractor in the garage or the miniature John Deere's in the curio, his affection was seen. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday April 3, 2010 to remember this great man. To recall how he made you laugh, what he taught you and the love he gave.