Linda K O'Keefe Franklin

Linda K O’Keefe Franklin, 83, of Bladenboro formerly of Midland, MI passed away on February 16, 2026. She leaves behind two sons, Steven Franklin (Lisa) of New York; Timothy "Tim" Franklin (Annette) of Vermont; daughter, Jill Pait (Barry) of Bladenboro; step-daughter Stephanie Bauer (Bill) of Pennsylvania; one brother Kirk O’Keefe of Florida; 12 grandchildren: Bethany (Justice), Elliott (Cristi), Olivia, Emma, Gedeline, Morgan, Levy, Erin, Ian, Steven Jr. (Kiera), Lauren, and Adam (Amanda); and 6 great-grandchildren: Leona, Phoebe, Everly, Sybil, Steven III, and Emmersyn. She was preceded in death by her husband and best friend of 59 years, Jerry Franklin, and her parents, John and Helen O’Keefe.

Linda was a godly, supportive, and loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend. She loved the Lord and her family with her whole heart. Linda enjoyed spending time in God’s word, in prayer, and in singing songs to the Lord. You could often find her singing even if no one else was around. Her husband and children learned about the Lord through her example and faith. Linda was the first person in her family to accept Christ as her Savior, leading the way for the rest of her family to come to know Jesus Christ. With her beloved husband, Jerry, Linda worked at her local church and served as a missionary for many years. It was Linda’s heart’s desire and prayer that each of her family members and friends would accept Jesus Christ as their Savior and see her one day again in Heaven. Her favorite Bible verse was John 3:16 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” 

Linda loved to write letters and send cards to encourage family members. She would always lend a listening ear to those needing support. She enjoyed spending time playing card games, roller-skating, dominoes, bowling, miniature golfing, shuffle-boarding, traveling, working on crafts, sewing gifts for her grandchildren, baking, and visiting family and friends. Her favorite foods were pecan pie and ice cream. Although Linda did not grow up in the South, she developed a great fondness for sweet tea! Some of her favorite songs were “I Love you, Lord”, “How Great Thou Art”, “I’ll Fly Away”, and “I Love You A Bushel and a Peck.” She will be greatly missed but leaves her family and friends with cherished memories. Linda will always be remembered as a good mom and wonderful grandmother.

A graveside service will be held at 3pm on Friday, February 20, 2026 at the Community Baptist Church Cemetery in Bladenboro with Rev. Warren Hill officiating.