Irma J. Franklin

A Life of Faith, Family, and Purpose

Irma J. Franklin was born in Opelousas, Louisiana, in 1942, to the late Wilson Charles and Orella Charles. She grew up alongside her siblings Gloria, Albert, LJ, Raymond, Eric, Geraldine, Wilmer, JC, Ray, and Abby.

At the age of 20, Irma left her Louisiana roots and moved to California, beginning a new chapter in her life. While living in Seaside, California, she sang in the Victory Temple choir. It was there that she heard the beautiful voice of a gentle, kindhearted young man named Johnny Franklin, who sang with the gospel group The Trumpeters. Their shared passion for music and faith brought them together, and in 1965, they were united in marriage. Together, they raised four children and built a life filled with family, love, and faith.

Throughout her life, Irma was a hardworking and dedicated woman. She was employed at McCormick & Schilling and later worked in in-home care and private-duty caregiving.

Irma loved the Lord and was deeply committed to her church. Through years of faithful dedication, she became Missionary Irma Franklin. And when Her husband became Pastor Johnny Franklin, she also graduated to First Lady Franklin and then District Missionary of Monterey. Her leadership and involvement in the church were an important part of her life, and she was respected for her wisdom, strong faith, and dedication to ministry.

Family remained at the center of Irma's world. She took great pride in her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and enjoyed being part of their lives. To family, friends, and members of her church community, she was affectionately known as Mother Franklin, Mom and Nana, all titles she carried with grace and distinction.

• Preceded in Death
• Irma was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Johnny T. Franklin; her parents, Wilson and Orella Charles; and eight siblings.
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• Cherishing Her Memory
• Irma leaves to cherish her memory her four children: Victoria, Tharon, Burchell, and Raquel. Her eight grandchildren: Vakisha, Ricky, Charmaine, Jonathan, Crystal, Josiah, Lannette, and Jalen. Her four great-grandchildren: Jace, Mateo, Braylon, and Xavier. She also leaves behind her surviving siblings, extended family, church family, and many dear friends.
• Forever in Our Hearts
• Irma J. Franklin lived a life shaped by her faith, her family, and the many experiences that made her who she was. From her beginnings in Louisiana to the life she built in California, she created a legacy that will continue through the generations of her family. Though she will be deeply missed, her memory will live on in the stories shared, the lessons remembered, and the moments treasured by those who knew her. Her earthly journey has ended, but her story continues through the generations she leaves behind.
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• Rest peacefully, Mother Franklin. You will forever hold a special place in our hearts.
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• A visitation with the family will be held from 2 PM - 4 PM, Saturday, November 14, 2026, in the chapel of Adams Funeral Services located 510 Stephenson Ave. Savannah, GA 31405.
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• A visitation will also be held at Healey Mortuary Chapel on Thursday, November 19, 2026 from 2pm-5pm; 405 N. Sanborn Rd., Salinas, Ca 93905.
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• A celebration of life will be held on Friday, November 20, 2026 Northminster Presbyterian Church located 315 Alvin Dr., Salinas, CA from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM followed by burial at Garden of Memories Memorial Park located 850 Abbott St. Salinas, California.
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• Please direct all floral arrangements to the following location:
• Healey Mortuary 405 N. Sanborn Rd. Salinas, CA 93905 Phone: (831) 200-1995
• Delivery Dates: November 18–19, 2026
• Deadline: All floral arrangements must be delivered no later than November 19, 2026.
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• May her memory be held closely by all who knew and loved her.