Gwendolyn K. (Ward) Franklin of McKinney, Texas passed away on June 15, 2017 at the age of 76. Gwen was born on December 15, 1940 in Indianapolis, Indiana to Robert Elwood and Clara Ellen (Wilkin) Ward. She married Frederick Dee Franklin on December 29, 1962 in Lima, Ohio. Gwen graduated from Bowling Green State University in Bowling Green, Ohio with a bachelor's degree. While attending Bowling Green, she was a member of the Alpha Phi Sorority and the synchronized swimming team. Gwen was a member of Stonebridge United Methodist Church in McKinney, Texas. She enjoyed playing tennis and bridge for most of her adult life, but what gave her the most joy was spending time with her family and friends in her home.
Gwen is survived by her loving husband of 54 years, Fred Franklin of McKinney, Texas; her son, Scott David (Holly) Franklin and their four sons, Tyler (Lauren), Troy, Tanner, and Trevor Franklin; her daughter, Pamela Dee Franklin (Tim) and their son, Benjamin; her sister, Claudette (Don) Hager; and nieces, Rosalind Wiechart and Colleen Good; along with numerous other family and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
A memorial service will be held at 12:00 noon, Wednesday, July 12, 2017 with a reception to follow at Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Home Chapel, 2525 Central Expressway North, Allen, Texas 75013 with Brad Cox and Bill Goodwin officiating. A private family inurnment will follow at Ridgeview Memorial Park in Allen.
The Samaritan Inn of McKinney had a special place in Gwen's heart. Memorial donations may be made in her memory to Samaritan Inn, 1725 N. McDonald St. McKinney, TX. 75071.