Ms. Carolyn Clontz Franklin, 86, of Morganton, passed away on Thursday, February 20, 2025, at College Pines Health and Rehabilitation, after a period of declining health.
Ms. Franklin was born in Burke County on August 22, 1938, to the late J. Harold and Louise Burns Clontz. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sisters, Earline Clontz, Joann Whisnant, and Sarah Clontz. Ms. Franklin was a member of North Morganton United Methodist Church.
Although born in Morganton, Ms. Franklin spent most of her formative years in Toccoa, GA, where she acquired the nickname from her father, “Honeybunch,” shortened to Bunch, which she was affectionately called by her family growing up. She graduated from Toccoa High School in 1956. After graduation, she attended Appalachian State University. She married the following year, moving to San Diego, California, and Jacksonville, Florida, before settling back in Morganton to raise her family.
Ms. Franklin was employed by Skyland Textiles and Fulenwider Enterprises, where she worked for many years. After obtaining her Cosmetology license, she was employed at Broughton Hospital as the beautician. She also maintained an in-home beauty shop for many years. Post-retirement, she worked as a beautician at New Image Beauty Shop for twenty years. She had the privilege to work until age 82 and loved the socialization and lasting friendships she made throughout her long career.
Ms. Franklin’s impact on her community was notable. In addition to her church, she was engaged in various community activities which included the State Employees’ Association of North Carolina (SEANC), Look Good Feel Better, where she dedicated twenty years to improving the quality of life and self-esteem of those undergoing cancer treatment, and Burke United Christian Ministries. She received numerous honors and awards for her dedication and service to these organizations.
Those left to cherish Ms. Franklin’s memory include her three sons: Ethan Franklin (Marcie) of Hickory, Doug Franklin (Kim), and Eric Franklin (Marta’) of Morganton, and sister Emogene Andrews and nephew Scott Andrews. She was lovingly referred to as Granny George by her ten grandchildren: Stephanie Hazel (Treaa), Matthew Franklin (Destiny), Morgan Murphy, John Franklin, Livingston Franklin, Dylan Lail, Cierra Lail, Gracie Chuisseu (Kevin), Joseph Franklin Jr. and Maggie Franklin. She also adored her four great-grandchildren, Judah, Norah, Jake and Kristen.
The family of Ms. Carolyn Franklin would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the many friends and family for the prayers and support during her declining health. The family would also like to especially thank the staff at College Pines Health and Rehabilitation, and special caregiver Naomi McGee for their love and care.
A Graveside Service will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at Forest Hill Cemetery, Morganton, with Rev. David Rorie officiating.
In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made to North Morganton United Methodist Church of Morganton.