Althea Jean Franklin
January 2, 2019
Althea Jean Franklin went home to Jesus on January 2, 2019. She was 90 years, 9 months, and 15 days.
Visitation will begin at 1:00 pm, Funeral Service will be at 2:00 pm, Monday, January 7, 2019, at Andover United Methodist Church. Graveside Service will be at 1:00 pm, Tuesday, January 8, 2019, at Tahlequah City Cemetery, Tahlequah, OK.
Althea came into this world on March 28, 1928 to Clay and Kate Herring in Wister, Oklahoma. She had 2 younger sisters, Barbara and Leila. She graduated from Northeastern State University in 1948 and married Arman Franklin of Tahlequah, Oklahoma on June 11,1948. They moved to Tulsa to work and begin a family. Into this marriage came three children – Richard, Clay, and Carly.
Althea Franklin taught Biology and Chemistry at Daniel Webster High School for 12 years and Chemistry and Physics at Tahlequah High School until she retired after 34 years of teaching. She co-owned the Redmen Shoppe with her husband and continued to operate the business after Arman passed in 1996. She sold the Redmen Shoppe and the Franklin Castle in 2004 and moved to Andover, Kansas with her daughter.
She loved to study her Bible and pray, play the piano while Arman sang, read just about anything, teach, and attend basketball games (NSU Redmen and then WSU Shockers).
Althea Franklin leaves behind her children – Richard (Patricia) Franklin of Orlando, Florida; Clay Franklin of Poplar Bluff, Missouri; and Carly (Darryl) Haynes of Andover, Kansas. Her grandchildren – Alyssa, Chad, Jennifer, Stephanie, Brent, Justin, Katie – and great-grandchildren – Mckenzie, Caroline, Katherine, Iris, and Odin. Her sister – Barbara. She also leaves behind nieces, nephews, and many friends.
One of Althea’s favorite Bible verses is Jeremiah 29:11 NIV:
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Thanks, Mom!
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I fondly remember Mrs. Franklin while patronizing the Redmen Shoppe. She was always eager to welcome you and to help you find what you needed. She will certainly be missed.
Althea was truly dedicated to her students and the teaching of chemistry! A true professional!
So good to us kids in 8th grade 74ish. Loved my fountain Pepsi and B-B-Q chips before school. Last of the originals that made Tahlequah what is in my memories. Prayers
So sorry, Clay and family.
Mrs. Franklin was my chemistry and physics teacher at THS. She was an inspirational and influential person in my young life, and she sparked my interest in pursuing a science education. I am sure she created positive ripples in the lives of countless students and colleagues. I am grateful for my memories of her.
Althea Franklin was my aunt but always treated me with love and kindness as if I was one of her own children. We all need people in our lives, beyond our parents, who care enough about us to guide, shepard, and keep us on the path to toward goodness and success. Althea was most certainly one of these folks in my life. A great teacher, loving parent, dedicated wife, and godly woman, Althea always exhibited the very best of human potential. We will miss her as a strong pillar in our family but take comfort in knowing she is now among Heavens elect.
Althea , a beautiful person, always the teacher.
Both of your folks were nice folks. I worked for them from 1975-1990…Take care.
Godspeed Mrs Franklin
Your store was the best place after school. Rip I know u missed your beloved husband
Mrs. Franklin was one of my favorite teachers, even if she made me work harder than I did in any other class! I have fond memories of her organizing the city parades, riding her scooter around to line people up. We also had a good time making peanut brittle in Chemestry class. The formula included protin pellets. RIP Mrs. Franklin, and my condolences to the family. Elizabeth Hilligoss Allen
My dear sweet aunt sissy! I love you more than words can say! Heaven gained an angel!
Althea you have been such a light in my life at the salon. May God hold you tight. Love you!!
Mrs. Franklin was an excellent teacher and a fair business woman.
We drank many a cherry limeade at the Redman Shoppe.
She was a wonderful teacher. Enjoyed her chemistry class at THS. Fond remembrances of the Redman Shoppe as well!
Rest In Peace. You were a wonderful teacher and I learned a lot from you. Also great memories walking by the castle to go to the Redman shop
My deepest sympathy goes out to the family. May you find comfort from our God of comfort during this difficult time Act 24:15
BC~
California
Alethas influence will always be felt in our Tahlequah community!!! She has left us with feelings that all is well in the Lord, our Savior!!! Thank you for your service here on earth!!!
Your mom was a wonderful person. My relationship was thru the church. I was just saying yesterday how I loved to hear your dad sing How Great Tho Art. Bless you all.
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family’s loss.