Franklin Dexter Stephenson

Franklin Dexter Stephenson passed away on July 27, 2024. He was born November 8, 1951 in Dallas, one of three children born to James Franklin and Winona Stephenson, both of whom preceded him in death along with his grandmother, Hattie Boatwright Carter. He graduated Seagoville High School where he played football and made the All-State Team. Franklin was a gifted athlete with the intensity for the sport and intelligence for intuitive responses to play calling. His innate talent earned him a scholarship to play in college, however, during his first semester, he became ill with mononucleosis (mono) and the resulting convalescence made playing football impossible. After leaving college, he began working for Yellow Motor Freight where his ability to see the bigger picture on deliveries, schedules and loads made him an invaluable team player. He worked with Yellow Freight for many dedicated years until his retirement. When not working, Franklin loved being outdoors, and one of his favorite activities was to go deep sea fishing with his mom and dad down at the coast. Franklin also had a great talent at growing a large garden full of vegetables and he was known in his neighborhood to share freely with neighbors and friends along with eggs from the chickens he also raised. Franklin was a self-taught beekeeper and the jars of honey that he bottled from his hives became treasured gifts to his family over the years. A thoughtful man who made sure that others knew his love for them over the years, Franklin will be remembered always by all who knew truly knew his heart. He is survived by his daughter Cherishe Stephenson; brother, Philip W. Stephenson and his wife Jeanie; sister, Suzanne Shumpert and her husband Greg; several grandchildren; niece, Michelle Joseph along with other extended family and friends. A private service was held and Franklin was laid to rest, next to his parents at Laurel Oaks Memorial Park. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day— and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing. 2 Timothy 4 :7-8

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Franklin Dexter Stephenson

November 8, 1951 - July 27, 2024