BENTON – Loretta A. Franklin, 87, of Benton died Friday night, Feb. 6, 2026, at her home.

She was born Oct. 1, 1938, in Benton, the daughter of Otha and Geraldine Hutchcraft.

She married Denzil Lee “Bud” Franklin on May 5, 1956, in Benton. He preceded her in death on Feb. 23, 2022.

Franklin worked as a head school cook, where she was known for making sure every child had a good meal, often paying for meals herself. She enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren, quilting, cooking, baking and traveling with her husband. She was a member of First Baptist Church of Benton and also attended First Free Will Baptist Church of Benton.

Survivors include two sons, Denny (Cathy) Franklin of Mulkeytown and Mark (Melody) Franklin of Benton; grandchildren: Brice Franklin, Sammi (Donald) Bailes and Selina Franklin; a great-grandson, Jace; a sister, Betty (Allen) Miles of Benton; a brother-in-law, Mike Franklin of Ewing; several nieces and nephews; and her dog, Holly.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; three sisters-in-law: Lynn Franklin, Peggy Franklin and Freda May; and a brother-in-law, John Franklin.

Graveside funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Feb. 13, at Masonic and Odd Fellows Cemetery in Benton, with Bro. Kent Dunford officiating. Burial will follow. There will be no visitation. Those attending the service are requested to meet at the cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Take Action Today, Benton-West City Ministerial Alliance or Franklin County Animal Control.

For more information or to send online condolences, visit mortonjohnstonfuneralhome.com.