Merman Franklin, age 72, of Marshall, passed away peacefully on July 23, 2023. Merman was born on April 6, 1951, in Madison County. He was a son of the late Vaughn Franklin and Alice Griffey. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Delores Mecca Horne Berry; a sister, Cathy Moore; and a brother Stevie Vaughn Franklin.

Merman is survived by his two daughters, Renae Hall (Greg), and Andrea Gomiller (Chris); two sons, Rob Berry (Kristi), and Tony Berry (Ronald); a brother, Joe Emerson Franklin (Jewell); 7 grandchildren; 13 great grandchildren; his fiance', Lisa McKinney; an uncle, Joe Worley Griffey; and several cousins.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 am Thursday, July 27, 2023, in Griffey Cemetery. Reverend Sollie Griffey will officiate.

All expressions of sympathy, including flowers, are welcomed, and can be sent to Blue Ridge Funeral Service.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.blueridgefuneralservice.org.