Clarence Frederick Franklin

Obituary For Clarence Frederick Franklin

Clarence Frederick Franklin, affectionately known as “Junior,” was born on January 30, 1945, in Rockwood, Tennessee, to the late Geraldine Franklin Waller and the late Clarence Fredrick Shell Sr. He peacefully transitioned to his heavenly home on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, surrounded by the comfort of home and the love of those who cared for him.

Clarence spent his formative years in Rockwood, where he graduated from Campbell High School and proudly played on the football team. He continued his educational journey at Tuskegee University before being drafted into the United States Army. As a Vietnam veteran, Clarence served his country with honor and courage. Following his military service, he furthered his education at the Cooper Institute.

He attended Speights Chapel AME Zion Church in Rockwood before later joining Payne Avenue Missionary Baptist Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. There, he served in the bus ministry as a driver and remained a steadfast supporter of the church.

Clarence built a distinguished career at Union Carbide’s Y-12 plant, where his dedication, strong work ethic, and leadership earned him numerous accolades, promotions, and the respect of his colleagues. After 40 years of service, he retired in 2008, leaving behind a legacy of excellence.

Clarence embraced the things he loved with enthusiasm. He was a devoted University of Tennessee Volunteers fan and found joy in R&B and blues music, as well as reading from his extensive book collection.

Clarence was deeply committed to service and brotherhood. He was a charter member of the Mechanicsville/Lonsdale Optimist Club and a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., C.C. Russell Lodge No. 262 F.&A.M., PHA, and 100 Black Men of Knoxville.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his stepfather, John L. Waller; his grandparents, Fred Bruce Franklin and Catherine Callie Jane DeArmond Franklin; and his cousin, Michael Gilbreath Sr.

Clarence leaves to cherish his memory his loving daughter, Carissa (Gus) Termon; his three grandsons, Nygel, Noah, and Nicolas Termon; and his great-grandson, Xander Termon. He is also survived by his siblings, Rodney “Potty” (Linda) Shell and Glenda Hodge, along with extended family members Andrea (Jamie) Matthews and Gwendolyn Smith. He shared special bonds with his cousins Patricia “Pudding” Smith and Mary “Bonnie” Henderson, and leaves behind a host of relatives, friends, and acquaintances who will forever hold his memory close.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, May 19, 2026 from 12-1:00 p.m. with the Celebration of Life Service to begin at 1:00 p.m. at the Unity Mortuary Chapel with Rev. Harold Middlebrook officiating.

The final resting place will be held at the Sherwood Memorial Gardens immediately following the service where military honors and dove release will conclude.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Unity Mortuary. www.unity mortuary1979.com

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