Franklin Lee White, 70, of Abilene, Texas passed away peacefully on September 17, 2025. A memorial service will take place at View Baptist Church on September 26, 2025 at 10am.
Franklin was born in Oklahoma City, OK on Thanksgiving Day, November 25, 1954, giving his parents and three older brothers something to be extra thankful for that year. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1973 to 1976 during the Vietnam War on the USS William V. Pratt. After being honorably discharged, he dedicated the next 48 years of his career as a Master Plumber with licenses in Oklahoma and Texas, using his knowledge and craft in various fields before retiring in 2024. Franklin was an active member of View Baptist Church as well as an active volunteer at Nehemiah Abilene. He loved music, fishing, playing golf, volunteering, and spending time with friends and family - usually over a good meal!
Franklin was preceded in death by his parents, Polk Alfred White and Grace Alice Rice, and his oldest brother, Al White. He is survived by his two brothers: Bill White and Curt White; four daughters and their spouses: Heather White Barthlow (Darin), Angie White Bowen (Matt), Lindsey White McDaniel (Chandler), and Laura White Rodriguez (Davian); and five grandchildren: Ike, Zoe, Avery, Mary, and Emerson.
Franklin will be remembered for his wisdom, generosity, unwavering faith, and love for his friends and family. His laughter and sense of humor were gifts to everyone who knew him.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Nehemiah Abilene, a local non-profit organization that provides recovery support services for homeless and formerly incarcerated men. Please visit their website to learn more about the meaningful work they do and for donation details:
Friends and family are invited to View Baptist Church on September 26, 2025 at 10am.
View Baptist Church
250 Boynton St.
Abilene, TX 79606