McDonald Franklin, Jr. Obituary in Richmond at Scotts Funeral Home

Obituary For McDonald Franklin, Jr.

McDonald Franklin Jr., 85, of Richmond, passed away on May 13, 2023, in Marietta, Ga. He was named after his Dad, and born the youngest of six children to McDonald, Sr. and Alibee Franklin on June 3, 1937, in Brunswick County, Va. He was raised in a Christian home and accepted Christ at an early age. Mac was a social worker, college professor, and administrator. He attended Scott Lewis Elementary School in Freeman, Va., and James Solomon Russell High School in Lawrenceville, Va. In high school he played upright string bass in the orchestra and tuba in the marching band.

He earned his undergraduate social science degree from St. Paul's College in 1959, while he continued to work the family farm and he was initiated into Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. Mac’s first child, Larry Dugger was born while Mac was in college.

Upon graduation, Mac entered the field of social work and traveled across the State of Virginia to help people who needed assistance with various aspects of life. He and the former Hazel Christian were united in Holy matrimony July 1960 at her home in New Kent County, Va. They would remain married for 49 years until her death.

To their union, Eric (1961) and Lisa (1966) were born. He was extremely proud of them both, and their accomplishments, especially their graduations from Hampton University. He always stressed the importance of taking advantage of educational opportunities as he was the first member of his family, and in fact, the first male in his entire local community, to graduate from college.

After earning his Master’s degree in social work from VCU, Mac taught in the School of Social Work where he gained many life-long friends. In 1972, he accepted the newly-created position of Assistant Director of Program Development and Evaluation at the Southside Va. Training Center for the Mentally Retarded, where he served until his retirement. He became an in-demand lecturer and mentor to many in the field of mental retardation. In 1995, Mac was honored to be inducted as a Fellow into the American Association on Mental Retardation.

Mac was preceded in death by his devoted wife, Hazel Franklin and beloved daughter, Lisa Franklin Nash.

Mac is survived by two sons, Larry Dugger of Deer Park, NY and Eric Franklin (Rané) of Atlanta, Ga; brother, Ahmed Salim of Freeman, Va.; as much as he loved his children, his absolute joy were his grandchildren, Tanya Dugger, Courtney Dugger, Charles Nash III (CJ), Evan Franklin, Erica Franklin and Elisa Franklin; great grands, Devon, Dillon and Delanie; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, mentees and friends.

Remains rest at Scott’s Funeral Home, 115 E. Brookland Park Blvd. where viewing will be held from 4 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 24, 2023. Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Thursday, May 25 at First African Baptist Church, 2700 Hanes Avenue. Interment Forest Lawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be to the Alzheimer's Association, 4600 Cox Road, Suite 130, Glen Allen, Va 23060.

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Christana Ross sent The New Sunrise Bouquet for McDonald Franklin, Jr. - May 24, 2023

Eric,
Thinking of you and your family during this time. With deepest sympathy as you remember your Dad. Sending healing prayers and comforting hugs.
Chris Ross

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Terence Matthews sent The Peace Lily for McDonald Franklin, Jr. - May 24, 2023

Eric, Rane and Family please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. May your cherished memories of your Dad bring you comfort and peace. We Love you and the family!! Terence and Lori Matthews

Mixed Spray was sent for McDonald Franklin, Jr. - May 23, 2023

Gracious Lavender Basket was sent for McDonald Franklin, Jr. - May 19, 2023

Carolyn J. Williams planted 5 trees in memory of McDonald Franklin, Jr. . - June 29, 2023

Plant trees for McDonald Franklin, Jr.

To the Franklin Family, may you be blessed by the abundance of fond memories and learning experiences afforded you being in the life of your honorable and beloved, McDonald Franklin. My prayers with love to you, Ms. Judith E. Hall, Jr.

We are very sorry to hear about the passing of your father, Mr. McDonald Franklin, Jr. May God's love give you and your family comfort and peace during your time of healing.
Pastor Wayne and Rev. Geraldine Miggins

To the Franklin & Dugger Families, our hearts are sadden as are yours. Uncle Jr. was a lovable, kind, encouraging and fun loving man. He will be missed. Praying God will continue to give you comfort and peace knowing the light of this spirit glows with all he met. Sorrowfully, Linda & Reggie Brown & Family

To the Franklin & Dugger Families, our hearts are sadden as are yours. Uncle Jr. was a lovable, kind, encouraging and funny man. He will be missed. Praying God will continue to give you comfort and peace knowing the light of his spirit glows with all he met. Sorrowfully, Linda & Reggie Brown & Family

I will always remember the kindness and life direction given to me by my cousin Mac. His smile would make one feel at ease and right at home. My deepest condolences to his sons and daughter. All my sympathy to our family, his friends and former colleagues of Southside Virginia Training Center previously located in Petersburg, Virginia. Shirley Scott-Travis

Until his illness,McDonald was a supportive member of the Richmond Metro Chapter of Saint Paul's College,serving on committees and faithfully contributing to the college.
McDonald always greeted you with a contagious smile, a warm handshake or hug and a comforting demeanor.
Our sympathy is extended to his family.
Linda McCullough President Richmond Metro Chapter

To the Family, We are sending our heartfelt sympathy. Praying God will surround you all with his love, comfort you with His grace and mercy. Eric, your Mom and Dad are together again! With much Love, Robert Jordan and Family.

Sorry to hear of my friend passing, just played games with him on the internet. Will truly miss him, My prayers goes out to the family.

I can't say enough about the wonderful role models Mr. & Mrs. Franklin were. Living the example of all catagories of how to live, worship Christ, love and nurture everything in life. Truly altruistic!!! Their Christian testimony was the way they lived. May they now walk together in heaven as it should be!
Charles Nash, Concord, NC

Mr. And Mrs.Franklin were the best parents to ERIC LISA and myself...Always smiling and always loving each other and everyone..And May they spirits shine bright forever...🙏🏽❤️

Sending prayers of comfort and peace to the Franklin family during this time. Ricky & Ellen Fields

I worked with Mr. Franklin in the mid-sixties and remember such a kind and thoughtful man. Sending sincere sympathy to his family and friends. God bless you all. Mary DePillars