Mrs. Kathy Franklin, 66 of Atkins, Arkansas transitioned on July 3, 2026. Kathy Louise Leapheart-Franklin was born on February 14, 1960 to E.L. and Inez Henson-Leapheart. She was the 6th child born to this union.

Kathy was a beloved mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister and friend to many.

Kathy was a 1978 Morrilton High School graduate. She worked for several years at the Atkins Pickle plant and finished up her working career at Tyson Foods for 27 years.

At an early age, she was often found at either St. Matthew#3 MBC or Pilgrim Rest#2 MBC but eventually joined St. Matthew #3 MBC and was a faithful member until her passing.

On June 28, 1982, she married Michael Franklin Sr. To this union five children were born. Kathy’s greatest joy was always her children until her grandchildren and great grandchild were born.

Kathy is preceded in death by her parents E.L and Inez Leapheart, grandparents, Alfred and Ida Henson; Eddie and Tobitha Leapheart; siblings, Charles Leapheart, Patricia Canady, Mae Ester and Louis Leapheart; son Matthew Franklin and niece Beverly Betts-Matthews.

She leaves to cherish memory, husband of 44 years Michael Franklin Sr, daughters: LaTonya (Alex ) Davis of Plummerville; Michelle Franklin of Blackwell; Mandy (Roderick) Nelson of Conway; one son: Michael Franklin Jr of Russellville; grandchildren Zianna Criswell, Alexandria Davis, Jadence Criswell, Isaiah Nelson, Kashtan, Kason, Karson, Karter Franklin, Mia, Mason and Michael Franklin III; great grandson Sy’Aire Griffin; three aunts; Ivo Foster of Kansas City, Mo; Mary Henson of Las Vegas, NV; Catherine Leapheart of Detroit, MI; sisters, Carolyn Betts of Chicago, Il; Sarah Kemp of Morrilton; Martha Dillard of Springdale and Linda Leapheart of Fort Worth, TX and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

If every step is led by His hand,

Then His grace is sufficient for me,

Whatever the outcome this trial may bring,

My soul is at peace; I am free.

Greta Zwaan

Vance-Wilson & Jarrett Funeral Directors

"The Epitome of Service"