Helen Rice Franklin

Helen Rice Franklin, 93, passed away Friday, February 17, 2023, at Givens Health Center.

Mrs. Franklin was born February 4, 1930, in Madison County to the late Troy Lewis and Ellenia Shelton Rice. She was married to Kenneth Bon “Sonny” Franklin, who died in 1992. Mrs. Franklin was a member of Victory Baptist Church for 66 years. For 49 years, she taught Sunday School for young children. She sang in the choir and was a member of the Dorcas Class.

She is survived by her daughter, Betty Franklin, her son, Kenneth D. Franklin and his wife Wanda; a grandson Kenneth B. Franklin and his wife Alison; two great-grandchildren, Charlotte M. Franklin and Kenneth “William” Franklin; and a sister, Pereda Paty. She was preceded in death by her brother, Joseph Rice.

Funeral services will be 2:30 p.m. Sunday, February 26, 2023 at Victory Baptist Church with burial following at New Liberty Baptist Church Cemetery. The Reverend Larry Sprinkle will officiate.

Her family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Victory Baptist Church Food Program, 80 Olivette Road, Asheville, NC 28804.

Her family and friends will miss her home canned green beans and strawberry preserves.