Gloria Jean (Carpenter) Franklin

On Thursday, December 25th, 2025, at Bon Secours Southern Virginia Regional Medical Center in Emporia, Virginia, God gently called His beloved child, Gloria Jean Carpenter Franklin, from labor to reward, ushering her peacefully into eternal rest.

Gloria was born on Tuesday, February 10th, 1948, in Greensville County, Virginia, to the late Robert Earl Carpenter and Pernell Virginia Simmons Carpenter. She lived a life defined by love, service, and quiet strength, and was a devoted wife, a loving mother and grandmother, a cherished sister, aunt, cousin, and a loyal friend to many.

She received her education in the Greensville County School System and graduated from E. W. Wyatt High School in 1966. A hardworking and nurturing woman, Gloria was employed in several capacities throughout her life, including Carddock Terry Shoe Factory, Belfield School Cafeteria, AAA, Southampton Textile, and later in home health care and babysitting. In every role she embraced, she demonstrated compassion, dedication, and a heart for caring for others.

At an early age, Gloria united with Diamond Grove Baptist Church, where she faithfully served as a choir member and worked diligently in the kitchen. Her faith was evident not only in church, but also in her daily walk. She found immense joy in caring for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, spending time with family, watching her and favorite television programs, and sewing—simple pleasures that brought her great happiness.

On March 27th, 1981, Gloria was united in holy matrimony to Winston Idell Franklin. Together, they shared 44 years of love, commitment, and cherished memories.

Gloria was preceded in death by her parents, Robert Earl and Pernell Carpenter; her sister, Shirley Clarke; her grandson, Dequan Lee; her sister-in-law, Jean Carpenter; and her brother-in-law, Earl Franklin.

She leaves to cherish her precious memory her devoted husband of 44 years, Winston Franklin; her children, Kimberly D. Garnes (Glenn) of Skippers, VA, and Charles D. Easter, Jr. of Richmond, VA; her beloved bonus daughter, Shardell Lewis of Emporia, VA, whom she raised as her own; six grandchildren, Ashley, MaQuetta (Marvin), Charles, Brittany, Alexis, and Latasha; five bonus grandchildren, Lamont, Dominique, Chara, Tabatha, and Marcus; twelve great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.

She is also survived by two sisters, Glenda Carpenter (Curtis) of Waldorf, MD, and Frances Stevens of Newport News, VA; three brothers, Henry Wyche of Jarratt, VA, Alvin Carpenter of Philadelphia, PA, and Robert Carpenter (Gloria) of District Heights, MD; one aunt, Rose Mosely of Philadelphia, PA; four brothers-in-law, George Franklin, Jr. (Rosa), Edward Lee Franklin, Eddie Franklin, and Shelton Franklin (Sharon); four sisters-in-law, Mattie McGowin (Russell), Catherine Hawkins (John), Daphne Franklin, and Sarah Franklin; two devoted friends, Thelma Brown and Inell Gillus; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will forever treasure her memory.

Though Gloria has answered God’s call to rest, her love, faith, and gentle spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Relatives and Friends are encouraged to visit Mrs. Franklin's tribute wall to share memories, extend condolences and to order floral tributes, as sentiments to the family. 

The Management and Staff of Knox-High Mortuary, Inc. is privileged to provide

"Distinctive Services, With The Essence Of Excellence"

to the family of Mrs. Gloria Jean Carpenter Franklin

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