Neil Wayne Franklin

Mr. Neil Wayne Franklin, 42, of Elon, NC, passed away Friday, January 26, 2024 at his home. 

Neil was born to Marian and Wayne Franklin on July 9, 1981 in Winston-Salem, NC.  He graduated from Parkland High School and attended Savannah School of Art and Design, Appalachian State University where he studied religion, and Guilford Technical Community College. He was a certified machinist which is the work he was doing at the time of his death. Neil was a talented artist; a snowboarder; a rock climber; a lover of movies; a lover of music, especially of Irish hard rock; and a lover of knowledge. He had a playful spirit. He was extremely proud of his Irish heritage. He studied the hows and whys of life and loved talking about them. He particularly liked reading conspiracy theories, believing some, debunking others. He also loved cars and repairing and upgrading them himself.

He was preceded in death by his grandfathers, Wade Franklin and Thomas O’Donnell; and by his uncle, Garry Franklin, with whom he had a special spiritual bond.

He is survived by the love of his life, his daughter Ava Claire, who made him smile like no one else. Also surviving are his parents, Marian and Wayne Franklin; both of his grandmothers, Marie Franklin and Kay O’Donnell; his brother, Aaron Franklin; and nieces, Alexys Nicole and Addyson Paige, whom he adored. He also leaves behind his partner of many years, Dana Freeman; and her two daughters, Bella and Lucie, who thought the world of Neil.

A memorial service will be held for Neil on Saturday, February 3, 2024 at Hayworth-Miller Silas Creek Chapel at 2:00 with Rev. Justice Schunior officiating.

In lieu of flowers, his family asks that you consider a donation to your favorite charity for those in need. 

Hayworth-Miller Silas Creek Chapel is assisting the Franklin family.

Online condolences may be made at www. Hayworth-Miller.com.