Richard Earl Franklin

Richard Earl Franklin, 93, of Odessa, earned his angel wings on Saturday, July 6, 2024, with his daughter Carol and great grandson Jordan Hutson by his side. 

He was born February 4, 1931, in Clay City, Illinois, to Alfred Duff Franklin and Mildred Holmes. In 1948, he married Norma Hance, also in Clay City, Illinois. They moved to West Texas and Richard was an Oil Field Driller for Cactus Drilling for 20 years.

Richard was also known as Papa. He enjoyed traveling with his wife in their camper, as well as riding motorcycles with his son Bobby in his early days. He also enjoyed helping his wife with her ceramic shop. 

He is proceeded in death by his parents; his wife, Norma Franklin; son, Robert Earl Franklin; and son-in-law, Rock Hutson.

Richard is survived by daughter, Carol Hutson; daughter-in-law, Janet Franklin; grandchildren, Amber Hutson, Rocky Hutson, Kim Franklin, Roger Franklin, and wife Turlaina Franklin, Dickie and wife, Shelly, and Tammy Chorney, and husband, Kevin; as well as 12 great grandchildren. 

Pallbearers are Hunter White, Hutson Sims, and Jordan Hutson. 

Services will be Friday, July 12, 2024, 10:00 AM, in the Chapel at Sunset Memorial Funeral Home, 6801 E. Business 20, Odessa, TX 79762. Dr. Reverend Jimmy Braswell officiating.