Bobby Franklin Memorial Service Fills Cumming Baptist Church

Support from all sides was the highlight of the memorial service honoring the late (R-Marietta, District 43). Hundreds of visitors including family, friends and political officials made it a point to attend the memorial service for a chance to say goodbye to the politician who was known for his dedication to his civic duty, honesty, and above all else, God.

This may be the reason so many political officials, (including those who didn't always agree with Franklin) had plenty to say about the man who had a gift for genuine diplomacy powered by steadfast faith.

"Half the time, I didn't agree with Bobby, and half the time, he didn't agree with me, but we were the best of friends," said political consultant, Patrick M. Gartland who described Franklin as a loyal friend.

A large turnout was expected for the memorial which made Cumming Baptist Church the logical choice for the occasion. Indeed, it was a good choice. The church was full with those who came to honor Franklin and his legacy of working consistently for what he believed to be right and true as defined throughout the bible. 

The memorial began with a call to worship and invocation. Reverands Martin Hawley and Joe Morecraft read from of the book of Daniel which aligns well with Franklin's philosophy on life and work.

Toward the end of the service, visitors were invited to stand up and say a few words about Franklin. The dominating sentiment was one of respect and admiration for Frankiln's ability to keep his unwavering commitment to stand by the truth, even if it meant meant standing alone.

Regardless of Franklin's strong positions against issues such as same sex marriage and abortion, he was well known as a man who could not be intimidated or persuaded for his own political gain. It is that virtue that gave him the ability to harness respect from both sides.

Toward the end of the memorial, many political officials stood up to say a few words about Rep. Franklin. So many in fact, stood up, that there was not enough time for everyone to get a chance to speak.

"We were at opposite ends of the table and at opposites ends on our beliefs when it comes to certain issues, but I worked with Bobby on an amendment despite our disagreements. He had infallible grace and he was a smart, smart man," said Stacey Y. Abrams, House Minority Leader for the Georgia General Assembly and State Rep. for the 84th House District. 

Rep. Mark Hamilton (R-Cumming, District 23) described Franklin as a great and humble gentleman. "Even in disagreement, Bobby Franklin always had a smile and always had respect for the other side."

Sen. Jack Murphy (R-Ga, District 27) agreed, saying Franklin always had a gentleman's attitude and a genuine smile, even the face of adversity and strong disagreement. "He was a good Man," said Murphy.

As the memorial came to a close, visitors and politicians alike gathered to share memories and stories about Franklin. 

People haven't always agreed with Rep.Franklin on specific issues. But it can be said that Franklin was honest, consistent and assuringly predictable in his strong beliefs and positions that concern our state and nation. 

Every friend, family member and politician at Franklin's memorial service was reminded of the traits we all hope for in our political leaders.