Mary Virginia Franklin

A graveside service will be held Thursday, March 2, 2023, 2:00 p.m. at St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church Cemetery, 421 St Andrews Rd, Columbia, S.C. 29210.

Born in Paulding County (Dallas), Georgia November 5, 1941, she was a daughter of the late John Asbury and the late Rosa Sapp Kell. A 1963 music graduate of Berry College, Rome, G.A. She was employed as a teacher and following retirement, as a sales consultant. Mrs. Franklin was a member of St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church in Columbia, and was a past president of the Lower Richland Ruritan Club.

In addition to her parents, she is predeceased by her former husband, Roy Cleveland Lawrence, Jr.; siblings, Metta Grace Kell, Ellen K. Ritch (William), Edith K. Ellison (Dewey), Eleanor K. Kerce (Cecil), Wilma K. Cleveland (Wilburn), Vanita K. Surles (Edward), Pearl K. Vonderhaar (Jim), E. Gerry Kell, Gordon W. Kell, Orin O. Kell, Preston C. Kell (Lydia), Alvin F. Kell, Wesley F. Kell (Maurine).

Survivors include her sister-in-law, Glenda Gail Kell; cherished nieces, nephews, and cousins. She is also survived by a loving step-family of five children and their spouses, John T. Franklin (Varine), Karen F. Caison (Robert), Ramon T. Franklin (Barbi), Mary F. Young (Buddy), and Lori F. Lesslie.

Gratitude is expressed for all those who befriended, mentored, advised, and provided health care and pastoral care throughout her eventful life. Appreciation is extended to all the pets whose company she was able to enjoy. Special thanks to her niece, Angela K. Durden and Mary Franklin Young for their attention to many decisions and details to importance.