Elizabeth Bessie Franklin

Elizabeth “Bessie” Franklin was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on June 26, 1930, to the preceded Pierce and Bessie Harris. God, in his infinite wisdom, summoned our beloved Elizabeth from this world to live with Him in His eternal garden early on November 4, 2023. Her mission on earth was accomplished. 

In Maryland in 1947, she wed the late William Franklin. From this union, five children were born (Delbert, William Jr, Brenda, Roxanne, and Christine (who preceded her in death).

Her life's work was to prioritize in her children and grandkids a strong sense of values, purpose, faith, and spirituality. She took great satisfaction in imparting life lessons to them that shaped the people they are now.

Elizabeth completed her education in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, after being raised in Coatesville, Pennsylvania, where she also attended James Adam High School. Elizabeth worked as a home health aide, a dietist for the Catholics, and a nurse assistant at the VA hospital. 

Elizabeth always had a great work ethic, but she also valued her spirituality highly. Elizabeth attended Deliverance Evangelistic Church, which was led by Pastor Benjamin, and gave her life to the Lord at a young age. She spent ninety-three years as a devoted and diligent member. Elizabeth assisted the pastor, led bible study, sang in the choir, and welcomed other church members.

Elizabeth was a virtuous and Godly woman.  She adored the Bible, praying for everyone that crossed her path and recited his word daily. She had great attributes that others found admirable and wished they might emulate. She wasn't hesitant to tell you that she had God in her heart.

Elizabeth made the most of her life. Among other things, she loved dancing and spending time with her grand and great-grandchildren. She was also delighted in making meals for her family and maintaining her home. On Sundays, she eagerly anticipated attending church, getting home for some fresh air, and sitting on her step to greet people.  One of the first people to live on Bambrey Street was Elizabeth. She spent more than twenty years living there.

There are numerous things to say about Elizabeth. Although she was a wise woman, her influence was wide. She was responsible for the educating, upbringing, and nurturing of many children.

Elizabeth leaves to cherish her memories: two sons, Delbert Franklin and William Franklin Jr; three daughters, Brenda Sims, Roxanne Davis, and Christine Franklin (who preceded her in death) ; two daughter in laws, Vanessa Franklin and Shirley Franklin (who preceded her in death) one brother, James Harris (who preceded her in death); six sisters, Lillian Dansler (who preceded her in death), Ann Mae Young (who preceded her in death), Billie Donovan (who preceded her in death), Minnie Taylor (who preceded her in death), Dorothy Davis (who preceded her in death), and Shirley Brown; ten grandchildren, Lisa Justice, Gina Gibson, Sherri Griffin, Rasheeda Franklin, Tyrone Finklea, Darryl Franklin, Latrice Sims, Joe Sims, Jermaine Franklin, and Theodore Franklin; and a host of great-grands, great-great-grands, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Elizabeth's life serves as a testament that one individual can have a profound impact on many others.

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