Entered into rest on Sunday, September 2, 2012, Ben Franklin, III, after a extended illness. Originally from Birdsville, GA, he was predeceased by his parents Ben Franklin, Jr. and Mary Perkins Franklin.

Born November 28, 1942 in Jenkins County, Ben lived joyfully, enjoying an encyclopedic knowledge of music and Civil War facts and lore. He enthusiastically entertained those around him with his uncanny memory of stories and creativity in telling them. He set an example for all by the grace with which he accepted the challenges that life presented him.

Funeral Services will be 2:00 pm Tuesday, at Fair Haven United Methodist Church with burial to follow at the Jones Family Cemetery at Birdsville.

Survivors include his sisters and their husbands: Mary and Jim Andrew of Millen, Kathryn and Neal Gruetter of Comer, Frances and Geoffrey Winslow of Duluth; nephews; Franklin Andrew, wife Julie, and Derek Winslow; nieces: Bess A. Thomas, husband Patrick, Katie W. Hull, husband Lee, of Atlanta, and Angie Winslow; four great-nieces and two great-nephews.

Visitation will be immediately following the service.