David Lee “Dave” Franklin

David Lee “Dave” Franklin, age 62, of Middletown, DE, passed away surrounded by his son and loved ones on Monday, September 28, 2026.

Born in Delaware County, PA on May 8, 1964, he was a son of the late Charles E. and Helen Lois (Hartley) Franklin, Sr. Dave proudly served in the United States Navy. He then made his career as an electrician.

From a young age, Dave enjoyed playing sports, excelling in softball and golf. On football Sundays he could often be found cheering on the Philadelphia Eagles; while summers were spent watching the Philadelphia Phillies ring the bell. Dave loved Harley Davidson motorcycles and always looked forward to going on a ride. He enjoyed watching his favorite TV shows, Seinfeld and Cops, and treating himself to a Tastykake and Reese’s cups. Dave’s most treasured memories were made with his family whom he loved deeply.

Dave is survived by his children, Joshua Franklin (Alexus), Holly Schroeder (Jordan), and Heather Shively; grandson, Rowan Franklin; siblings, Charles Franklin, Jr. (Debbie), Ruth Preisch (Stan), Dale Franklin, and Melba Saxton (Ron); and many nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews.

A visitation for family and friends will be held from 10:30 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Home, 121 West Park Place, Newark, DE, where a funeral service will begin at 11:30 a.m. A committal service will follow in the chapel of Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 2465 Chesapeake City Road, Bear, DE.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dave’s memory to Blood Cancer United, P.O. Box 22324, New York, NY 10087 or online by clicking here; or to CancerCare, 485 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10022 or online by clicking here.