Gregory L. Franklin, 72, passed away Sunday, April 26, 2026, at his home.
Gregory was born August 27, 1953, in Murray, Kentucky, to the late Alfred L. Franklin and Barbara McGregor Franklin. After graduating from high school, he answered the call to serve his country in the United States Air Force, where he was honorably discharged. He later built a long and dedicated career as an insurance agent.
Gregory truly enjoyed life in his own way. He loved spending time on the golf course, cheering on the University of Kentucky basketball, and watching NASCAR races. Some of his favorite memories were made traveling with his beloved significant other, Vivian, especially their trips to Gatlinburg and Florida.
Those who knew Gregory will remember him as a proud and private man, with a quiet but mischievous sense of humor that would often catch you by surprise. He was raised in the First United Methodist Church in Benton, Kentucky, a place that helped shape his early years.
He is survived by his significant other of 33 years, Vivian Rubenacker of Paducah, Kentucky; sisters, Gloria Franklin and Gina Franklin Howes, both of Benton, Kentucky; uncle, James Franklin of Alabama; grandson, Destin Rubenacker (Molly) of Paducah, Kentucky; niece, Darby Howes of Benton, Kentucky; nephews, Kaine Thompson (Karol), Grant Franklin, and Guy Howes (Bailey), all of Benton, Kentucky; great-niece, Loren Thompson of Benton, Kentucky; and great-nephew, Everett Thompson of Benton, Kentucky.
He was preceded in death by his uncle, Gayle McGregor.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, May 1, 2026, at the Lone Oak Chapel of Milner & Orr Funeral Home, with burial to follow at Woodlawn Memorial Gardens.
Visitation will be held from 10:30 a.m. until the service hour of 1:00 p.m. on Friday at the funeral home.
Please share a memory or leave a message for the family at www.milnerandorr.com.
