Mr. Matthew Franklin, 31 of Blackwell, Arkansas transitioned on May 28, 2023. Matthew Eugene Franklin, was born October 4, 1991, to Kathy L. Leapheart and Michael E. Franklin, Sr. He was the fifth child born to this union. Matthew was a devoted father, brother and friend to many. At an early age, he joined St. Matthew #3 Missionary Baptist Church. He graduated from Morrilton High School in 2010 with many athletic and FFA credentials. Matthew loved everything outdoors from hunting and fishing to every sport imagined and every cowboy's finest companion horses. His greatest accomplishment will forever be his children. Matthew is preceded in death by his grandparents; E. L. and Inez Henson Leapheart, Rayford and Betty Bland Franklin Sr., uncle; Rayford Franklin, Jr., Shawna Jackson, aunts; Mae Ester Leapheart and Patricia Canady; cousin; Beverly Betts Matthews. He leaves to cherish his memory parents; Michael and Kathy Leapheart Franklin, Sr. fiancée; LaSharra Young, children; Kashtan, Kason, Karter and Karson, sisters; LaTonya (Alex) Davis, of Plummerville, Michelle Franklin of Blackwell, Mandy (Rodrick) Nelson of Conway, brother; Michael Franklin Jr. of Russellville; two bonus parents, Terry and Charlotte Heaggans and Shane and Shelly Mullins, all of Morrilton, two very special bonus brothers Terrance (Elizabeth) Heaggans and Chase (Katie) Mullins, two great uncles, Paul Franklin, Sr. of Russellville and Aaron (Catherine) Leapheart of Detroit, MI, four great aunts, Ivo Foster and Ophelia Monroe of Kansas City, Mo, Ora Henson of Cleveland, AR and Mary Henson of Las Vegas, NV and a host of nieces, nephews, uncles, aunts relatives and friends Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing. 1 Thessalonians 5:11 Vance-Wilson & Jarrett Funeral Directors "The Epitome of Service"

Funeral Service Wednesday, June 7, 2023 10:00 AM St. Matthew No. 3 208 Blackwell Road Atkins, Arkansas