Alma Jo Martin Franklin, devoted wife and matriarch passed away peacefully on August 28, 2025. Alma was born in Anson County to the late Horace Harrell Martin and Adeline Barbee Martin on July 20, 1938.

A graduate of Peachland High School, Alma went on to receive her Bachelor of Science Degree in Home Economics from Woman's College of the University of North Carolina which is now UNC Greensboro. Later she also attained a degree in Childhood Education. She treasured her career in education. Her true gifts were helping children learn to read and to be successful not only in the classroom but also in life. During her career, she was awarded Outstanding Teacher of the year from Pine Level Elementary School for her hard work, dedication and commitment to her students and profession. Alma faithfully served as a longstanding member of First Baptist Church in Smithfield and enjoyed teaching Sunday School alongside her husband. She was a voracious reader and culinary enthusiast. Alma had a passion for cooking and always made sure to prepare extra cuisine to send home with her children. Alma’s most cherished role was being a mother. She was an adored grandmother and just recently earned the title of great-grandmother! Each grandchild shared a loving relationship and wonderful memories with their Meemaw/grandma such as: sleepovers, special trips, treats and more! She was proud of her children and grandchildren and enjoyed celebrating all of their accomplishments together as a family! During retirement, Alma found joy in the simple pleasures of life: spending time with her family, listening to classical music and spoiling her grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 39 years, William Wayne “Bob” Franklin; her brother, Harrell Martin; and her sister, Frances Armstrong. Alma is survived by her two daughters, Sherry Dickinson and husband Alan Dickinson; Tina Cole and husband Jamie Cole. She is the grandmother of four: Luke (Lauren) Dickinson, Lee Dickinson, Taylor Cole, William Cole and great-grandmother of one, Carter Dickinson. Alma is further survived by three sisters, five brothers, and countless nieces and nephews. Her unshakable devotion to her family will be missed and forever treasured.

The family plans to gather at a future time for a celebration of life.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to First Baptist Church Handbell Choir, 202 S 4th St, Smithfield, NC 27577.