James Franklin

James Leroy (Red) Franklin Sr., also known as Buddy Boy in Alabama, age 95, of South Renovo, PA passed away Monday, July 1, at the Bucktail Medical Center. He was the widower of Veronica (Drugatz) Franklin who passed away Feb. 1, 2006 after 67 years of marriage. He was born February 13, 1918 in Jefferson County, Alabama, to the late Jack & Annie Roberson Franklin.

Jim was a volunteer for the CCC Camps in his early years in Cooks Run, PA where he met his wife playing baseball. He retired from Whitaker Co., worked for the Pennsylvania Railroad for 26 years and was also a former employee of Speno.  Jim served on borough council for many years and most recently was the Mayor of South Renovo, PA. Well known in the community as a public servant and friend, he volunteered for many events and occasions. A lover of all sports, specifically baseball, Jim started the Little League Program in Renovo in 1949. Jim played his favorite sport golf until 2012; made his “hole in one” on the 18 ^th green of the Emporium Country Club, of which he was a member.  He also played in the band “Rock & Rangers.”  Jim was a  member of the following  organizations: life member of the  Eagles # 516, a 20 year member of the BPOE, Lock Haven, a member of the Sons of Italy Lodge 182 and the 3rd Degree Knights of Columbus, and was also a member of the Citizens Fire Co. and the American Legion.

He is survived by three daughters; Helen (Al) Diebler of Clearfield, Veronica (Dennis) Morgan of Mt. Holly Springs, Linda (Ken) Fleming of Boiling Springs and his son James (Chic) Franklin Jr. of Lock Haven. Also surviving are two son-in-laws; Howard Schiff of Renovo and Leo Jenkins Jr. of California; 15 grandchildren; 29 great grandchildren; and 5 great great grandchildren. In addition to his wife, he was predeceased by two daughters, Joanna Schiff & Mary Lou Jenkins and a grandson Thomas Jenkins.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, July 6 at 12 Noon, in the St. Joseph Catholic Church, 925 Huron Ave., Renovo, PA 17764 with Father Charles Ugo and Father Donald Boslett as celebrants.  Interment will be in the St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, Hyner, PA.  A viewing will be held prior to the service from 10:00 AM until 12 noon in his church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to his church or to the Bucktail Medical Center.  Arrangements are being handled by the Hollinger Funeral Home & Crematory, 501 N. Baltimore Ave., Mt. Holly Springs, PA 17065. To send condolences, pleases visit our website at www.hollingerfuneralhome.com.