Ned Franklin

John “Ned” Franklin, 83, of Metter, passed away early Tuesday morning at his residence.

A lifelong resident of Candler County, Ned graduated from Metter High School with the Class of 1959. In 1961, he married the love of his life, Joyce Kemp, and together they built a life rooted in family, faith, and community. For over 59 years, Ned and Joyce were devoted members of Metter First Baptist Church, where Ned was an active participant in the Andrews Sunday School Class.

Throughout his working life, Ned held many roles. He spent 20 years with Industrial Conveyor Belt Service in Savannah and later became a successful restaurateur. He operated the Metter Motel and Restaurant as well as the Open Hearth Restaurant. He also worked alongside his wife Joyce, who managed the Western Steer in Metter for several years. Ned approached all of his work with dedication and pride.

Above all, Ned cherished his family. He had a special bond with his nieces and nephews, treating them as if they were his own children and supporting them wholeheartedly in all their endeavors.

Ned was preceded in death by his parents, Jasper Remer Franklin and Myrtis Hiers Franklin and his brother, Jasper Remer Franklin, Jr.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Joyce Kemp Franklin of Metter; his siblings, Doris (Kelton) Cook of Metter, Jenny (Joe) DeLoach of Metter, Jerry (Ida) Franklin of Farmington, CT, Pernal (Cathy) Franklin of Metter, and Marty (Terry) Franklin of Pulaski; his sisters-in-law, Mary Deal Franklin of Excelsior, Edna Brinson of Metter, and Annette Bruner of Metter; as well as several nieces and nephews who will forever carry his memory in their hearts.

Visitation will be held Thursday, June 12, 2025, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Kennedy Funeral Homes, Hooks Chapel, in Metter. Funeral services will take place Friday, June 13, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Metter First Baptist Church. Interment will follow in Lake Cemetery.

Guestbook: www.kennedyfuneralhomechapels.com

Kennedy Funeral Homes, Hooks Chapel, of Metter is in charge of arrangements.