Franklin lived a life defined by devotion to family, hard work, kindness, and friendship. He was the beloved husband of Elizabeth “Ann” Swilley Matthews. The two were married on June 6, 1958, and shared nearly 68 wonderful years together filled with love, commitment, and cherished memories. He proudly served his country in the United States Army and later dedicated 35 years of service to Coats & Clark, where he was respected for his strong work ethic and dependable nature. Known for his outgoing personality and friendly spirit, Franklin never met a stranger. He enjoyed sports, fishing, and spending time with the people he loved most. Above all else, he took great pride in being a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His warmth, laughter, and caring heart touched everyone who knew him.
Franklin was a loving father to Teressa Hackerott and Joseph Matthews. He was a proud grandfather to Serena Hackerott, Christian Strahan, and Christopher Matthews, and a treasured great-grandfather to Cayden, Mason, Jacie, Joselyn, Jurnee, Sami-Jo, and Elliana Marie.
A memorial service will be held in Franklin’s honor on Wednesday morning, May 27, 2026, at 9:00 AM at Ricketson Funeral Home. He will be inurned in the Matthews family plot in Douglas City Cemetery at a later date. Franklin’s legacy of love, kindness, and dedication to family will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Condolences, kind words, and fond memories may be shared with Franklin’s family at www.ricketsonfuneralhome.com.
Franklin’s arrangements have been entrusted to the kind and compassionate staff of Ricketson Funeral Home, Inc. of Douglas, Georgia.
Franklin’s arrangements have been entrusted to the kind and compassionate staff of Ricketson Funeral Home, Inc. of Douglas, Georgia.