Obituary of Walter McKinney Franklin

Walter Franklin, 83, died at the Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center in Charlotte on Sunday, March 19, 2023. He was a native of Charlotte.

Born February 10, 1940, he was the son of the late Walter McKinney Franklin, Sr., and Willie Stowe Franklin.

Walter graduated from Myers Park High School and was a Myers Park United Methodist Church member. He attended The Citadel and earned a bachelor’s degree from East Carolina University. Walter taught industrial arts and had a successful career as a safety engineer. In his free time, he fished on Lake Wylie and spent quality time with his children and grandchildren. In addition, he enjoyed collecting classic Ford automobiles as a member of the Early Ford V-8 Club and as a member of the United States Power Squadron.

Mr. Franklin is survived by his wife, Martha Taggart Franklin; sons, Walter McKinney Franklin, III, of Asheville, John C. Lockhart (Sandy) of Swampscott, MA, and Howard Perry Lockhart of Glenn Allen, VA; and daughters, Pamala Franklin Hardin (Phillip) of Banner Elk and Jeanne Lockhart Salas (Frank) of Cary, NC and three grandchildren, John C. Lockhart, Jr., Zac Lockhart Salas, and Hallie Victoria Salas; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Calling hours will be from 3 to 4pm, Friday March 24, 2023, with services following at 4pm at Hankins & Whittington Funeral Home, 1111 East Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28203.

Memorials can be sent to Pisgah United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 114, Linville Falls, NC 28647.

Online condolences may be made at www.HankinsandWhittington.com.