Larry Dean "Bear" Franklin

Larry Dean “Bear” Franklin, passed away on Saturday, September 26, 2020 surrounded by his family.

He was born on October 9, 1949 to the late Jack and Genouse Lawing Franklin.

He is survived by his “current” wife, Brenda Smith Franklin, two children, David (Lisa), Deana Greene (Jason), 8 grandchildren: Garrison Greene, Jack Franklin, Gabriel Greene, Audrey Franklin, Moriah Greene, Harper Franklin, Jessa Greene, and Reese Greene, and one brother Wayne Franklin.

He cofounded Action Tool Service with Sam Purdy in 1978 and dedicated himself to making it a success.  He was never concerned about worldly success or impressing others.  He considered success to be measured by his relationship to God, his family and friends. He was a loving husband, wonderful dad, doting PawPaw, caring friend, father figure and mentor to many who came across his path.  He was hilariously funny, generous, and always honest in his dealings with everyone.  He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Although he has lived in Hampton, VA for 50 years, in his heart he was always a Sugar Hill boy so his remains are going back to North Carolina.  There will be a memorial service in the chapel of Beam Funeral Service in Marion NC on October 10, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. Larry will be laid to rest at McDowell Memorial Park in Marion, NC.

For his many family and friends in Virginia, there will be a celebration of his life in the chapel at Liberty Baptist Church in Hampton, VA on Sunday, October 18 at 2 pm.  Casual attire is requested, masks required.

He loved to help someone in need, so in lieu of flowers, a contribution can be made in his memory to an organization that specializes in helping others:      Operation Blessing (www.ob.org) 977 Centerville Turnpike, VA Beach, VA 23465 or Samaritan’s Purse (www.samaritanspurse.org) PO Box 3000, Boone, NC 28607.