On Tuesday, August 18, 2026, Kathleen Virginia Sparrow Franklin peacefully departed this life at Lynchburg General Hospital. Born on December 13, 1930, to the late Ernest and Martha Sparrow, she was blessed with a long and beautiful life of 95 years. She was the devoted wife of 73 years to the late Deacon Wesley Franklin.

Kathleen was preceded in death by her daughter, Kathy Sue Franklin; two sons, James Wesley “Slim” Franklin, Sr. and Ernest Tyrone “Bear” Franklin; five brothers, Rossie (Dorothy), Robert (Marian), Clarence (Emily), George (Elizabeth), and Onie (Vernell); six sisters, Ruth Sparrow, Doretha Woodson (Lewis), Hester Scott (Samuel), Dorothy Woodson (James), Lucille Vaughter, and Mary Alice Scott (Annual); two grandsons, James Wesley “Jay” Franklin, Jr. and Dennis Wayne “DW” Megginson, Jr.; one great-grandson, Dedric Shyheim Megginson; and one great-great-grandson, Khayr Franklin.

A devoted and life-long member of Fairmount Baptist Church, Kathleen served faithfully. She was one of the four members that started the Usher Board Ministry at Fairmount Baptist Church. She was the Treasurer for both the Usher Board and Willing Workers Ministry. She prepared and served many dishes and desserts while serving the Hospitality Ministry. Until her health began to decline, she was a dedicated Deaconess. She led with grace, greeted everyone with a warm smile, and carried a spirit of kindness that touched all who knew her. She loved her church deeply and willingly shared her wisdom with others. Her legacy of service, dignity, and devotion will continue to guide us. She is honored as the Mother of Fairmount Baptist Church.

Kathleen faithfully served her husband, family, and friends. She was affectionately known as, Kat, Mother, Morn, Ms. Franklin, Nanny, and Aunt Kathleen. Her home was always a place of welcome. Her door always open and her table always set with delicious meals and desserts prepared with love. Kathleen loved to cook, and she shared that gift both at home and in her work. She was employed at Lee’s Restaurant, where her warm spirit and strong work ethic were well known. She also performed day work for various homes and businesses, balancing her schedule around the needs of her husband and family. Her dedication to her family was evident in every choice she made and every task she performed. She also enjoyed sewing, watching westerns, and always finding joy in the simple comforts of life.

Among those who shared a special bond with Kathleen was her devoted cousin, Louise Moore (Leon). They worked together, shopped together, and baked together, creating memories filled with laughter, companionship, and love. During Kathleen’s illness, Louise played a meaningful role in helping to care for her, offering comfort support and unwavering devotion. Their relationship was a treasured blessing in Kathleen’s life.

She leaves to cherish her memory her daughters, Stella Franklin, Shirley Gillispie, and Martha Franklin all of Madison Heights, VA; her sons, Robert (Marcella), McKinley “Low” Franklin (Gwen), and Donald all of Madison Heights, VA; a sister-in-law, Barbara Bowling of Lynchburg, VA; 25 grandchildren, 54 great-grandchildren, 25 great-great-grandchildren, and 5 great-great-great-grandchildren; along with a host of nieces, nephews, family, and friends who loved her dearly.

For ninety-five remarkable years, Kathleen Virginia Sparrow Franklin lived a life marked by faith, family, and service. She was a pillar of strength, a quiet teacher of kindness, and a steadfast example of Christian devotion. Her hands prepared meals, her smile welcomed strangers, her leadership strengthened her church, and her love shaped generations. She walked through life with dignity, humility, and unwavering faith. Her legacy is one of compassion, hospitality, and commitment, an enduring gift to all who were blessed to know her.

A homegoing celebration will be held at 1:00 PM on Sunday, August 23, 2026, at Fairmount Baptist Church. Interment will be in the church cemetery. Service of comfort entrusted to  Davis-Turrner Funeral Service.