Roy "Gene" Franklin, age 89, passed away peacefully on September 15, 2025, at Allure of Moline. Born on November 20, 1935, to Roy Thurman and Bertha (Griffin) Franklin, Roy was a proud veteran who served in the United States Army. He married the love of his life, Kathleen Verdegam, on February 7, 1958, at St. John's Lutheran Church in Rock Island.

An artistic soul, Roy had a talent for transforming ordinary materials into beautiful creations, often doodling on anything he could find and crafting special items from wood. His passion for collecting toy cars was a testament to his playful spirit and keen eye for detail.

Funeral services will be held at 12:00 PM on Friday, September 19, 2025, at Grace Church PCUSA, located at 2324 18th Ave, Rock Island, IL, with a visitation one hour prior at the church. Burial will be in Moline Memorial Park Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be directed to the family in his honor.

Those left to cherish his memory include his loving wife, Kathleen; daughter, Lisa (Troy Sr.) Nimmers; grandchildren, Julia Franklin, Ebonie (Vernon) Wilmington, Aundrea (David) Bell, Marcus McCall, Michael McCall, and Tori Nimmers; a special great-grandson, Andrew Franklin; a host of other great-grandchildren; and niece, Debra McCarthy.

He was preceded in death by his parents, daughter, Laura Franklin, grandson, Dwight McCall Jr., and siblings, Robert Franklin and Roberta Draper.

Roy will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.

Condolences and cherished memories may be shared with the family at www.wheelanpressly.com.