William Wayne Franklin

William Wayne Franklin a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, departed this life on Tuesday, September 29, 2026. He was born to Willie Dee and Ethel Franklin on January 27, 1954 in Brooklyn, New York. As the only brother among four sisters, Wayne was always exploring in ways that landed him in the ER.

Wayne worked for the parks department as a pool cleaner at Betsy Head pool. He later rose in the ranks of the New York City Housing Authority from heat plant technician to supervisor.

Wayne married Elizabeth Woods in 2004, and after retirement eventually made the move to Petersburg Virginia where they purchased a home. Wayne's love and respect was evident in his personal growth and relationship with God. He was a beloved elder at both his Brooklyn and Petersburg Lutheran churches.

Long before the move to Virginia, Wayne had formed several bands. His love of music was very evident as he was a self taught guitarist. He wrote, recorded and performed. In Virginia, Wayne continued to perform at church inspiring novice musicians.

Wayne started a phone ministry to share spiritual messages and blessings via text. He was always lifting up others and encouraging their strength in the Lord. Wayne handed out small wooden keychain crosses while walking or driving or even sitting waiting for an appointment. In the Market Street Coffee Shop he created a prayer wall where people could share prayers. He was truly a light to everyone around him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Willie Dee and Ethel Franklin; and his sister, Vanessa Franklin.

Wayne is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Woods Franklin; sisters, Jacqueline Brown, Karin Franklin-King (John) and Gail Franklin-Gurley; two daughters, Waynell Franklin and Lakeeya Woods; four grandchildren, Desire Babbs, Jessiah Augustin, Egypt Augustin and Zuri Harris; one great grandson, Handsome Similao; and a host of nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, cousins, other cousins, friends.

Wayne was caring, loving and strong! He had such a giving heart and touched so many lives. He Would deeply be missed and forever loved. In God's hands he is resting. In our hearts he lives on!

Services will be held 11:00 A.M., Saturday, October 10, 2026, at Lutheran Church of Our Redeemer, 1769 S. Sycamore Street, Petersburg, VA, Pastor Paul Christian, eulogist. The interment to follow at Dinwiddie Memorial Park.

J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com. Watch the funeral services live online on our J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc. Facebook page or   Click here for live stream