B. Keith Franklin, 51, of Hot Springs, lost his battle with depression on April 11, 2015.
He was born October 19, 1963 in Santa Monica, California to James and Alice Franklin. Keith was a member of Piney Grove United Methodist Church. He was a passionate and talented teacher at Mt. Ida Middle School. Keith was a published author, an accomplished poet and a lover of all things history. He traveled the world performing his poetry.
He was a collector of antiques, stamps and was very passionate about researching his family genealogy.
He is predeceased by his father as well as his brother, Jim Franklin.
Loving survivors include his wife of 27 years, Karen Gaither Franklin, of Hot Springs; daughter, Emma Rose Franklin and her fiancé, Austin Savage, of San Marcos, Texas; mother, Alice Taylor, of Mt. Ida.; brother, David (Sharon) Franklin, of Russellville; brother, Chris (Mary) Franklin, of Hot Springs; brother, John (Melanie) Franklin, of Memphis, Tennessee; sister, Kathi Franklin, of Chicago, Illinois; sister, Kim Sowell, of Malvern; sister, Dawn (Jeff) Cauthron, of Augusta, Georgia; sister, Robin (Melvin) Weaver, of Round Rock, Texas; 9 nieces, 3 nephews, and 4 great-nieces.
A memorial service in Keith’s honor was held at Caruth-Hale Funeral Home with Pastor Scott Gallimore officiating. Bud Kenny will perform Keith’s poetry.
In lieu of flowers please make donations to the following: To Write Love On Her Arms at www.twloha.com, an organization dedicated to raising funds to combat mental illness.
Guests may register at www.caruth-hale.com.
