James Ethridge Franklin's Obituary
James Ethridge Franklin (Jim/Jimmy), born September 27, 1932, in Delhi, Louisiana passed away on January 21, 2023 after a short illness. He died peacefully at Forest Manor Rehabilitation Hospital in Covington, LA.
Jim was a Veteran of the Air Force during the Korean conflict. He served in the Philippines as a mechanic for 3 years. Upon returning stateside, he attended Louisiana Tech University and graduated as a Civil Engineer, a degree that served him well throughout his long career. That career took him all over the world. He worked and lived in Singapore, Scotland, Nigeria, Great Britain, and Azerbaijan until 1997. Upon retiring from J Ray McDermott in 1997, he returned to the United States and settled in Petal, Mississippi where he and Myrtis lived until 2013. There he got back to doing the things he loved most - hunting, fishing, enjoying American football, and time with his family, especially his grandsons. To be closer to his children, Jim moved to Covington, Louisiana in late 2013 after losing his beloved wife. He faithfully attended First Baptist Church of Covington, Louisiana until his passing.
Jim is survived by his two daughters, Terry Schaefer and husband Dwayne of Mandeville, LA, and Lori Theriot of Covington, LA; and two grandsons, Brandon Schaefer and wife Jamie of Mandeville, LA, and James Schaefer also of Mandeville, LA. He is also survived by three great grandchildren, Cecilia Rene Schaefer, Bowen James Schaefer, and Georgia Grey Schaefer. He also left behind a niece, Karen Robinson Spicer, and a nephew, Kyle Robinson, and countless cousins that he loved dearly. He also leaves behind many family and friends from around the world.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 57 years, Myrtis Franklin; one daughter; his parents, Lonnie Franklin and Mignnone Franklin Raymond; mother in law Marie Cassiday Thomas; father in law, Aubie Thomas; sister in law, Audrey Lee Robinson; one niece, Rosemarie Robinson; and one nephew Keith Robinson.
Jim lived a full and long life. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather. He was well loved and respected by many.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend the funeral service at E. J. Fielding Funeral Home, 2260 W 21st Avenue, Covington, LA 70433 on Saturday, January 28, 2023 at 11:00 AM with visitation beginning at 10:00 AM until service time. Interment will take place at Providence Memorial Cemetery, 1610 West Street, Winnsboro, LA on Monday, January 30, 2023 at 12:00 noon.
E.J. Fielding Funeral Home has been entrusted with funeral arrangements. Please sign the online guestbook at www.ejfieldingfh.com.
What’s your fondest memory of James?
What’s a lesson you learned from James?
Share a story where James' kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with James you’ll never forget.
How did James make you smile?
