Obituary

Jerry Dean Marshall Franklin

July 10, 1943 - April 7, 2025

Jerry Dean Marshall Franklin was born to Julius Raymond Marshall and Katherine Torrence Marshall on July 10, 1943, in Bogalusa, LA. She transitioned from earth into the arms of her Heavenly Father on April 7, 2025.

Jerry accepted the Lord as her personal savior and was baptized at Metropolitan Baptist Church under the spiritual guidance of Rev. E.M. Porter. Throughout the years, she served as a faithful member under the pastorate of Rev. McEwen, Rev. Galloway, and Rev. Barney. During this time, Jerry served in various capacities, including musician for Sunday School, BTU (Baptist Training Union), and Sunday services. As a gifted musician, Jerry worked throughout her life as a church organist, pianist, and choir director. She served for many years as church organist at Mt. Carmel Baptist Church in Bogalusa. in addition to being a long-standing musician for the Third District Bogue Chitto General Missionary Baptist Association.

Jerry began her musical educational journey singing in the glee club and was a proud graduate of Central Memorial High School, Class of 1961 (Bogalusa, LA). She went on to attend Southern University A&M College (Baton Rouge, LA), earning her Bachelor’s Degree in Music, along with certifications in both vocal and piano music instruction. Jerry pursued continuing her education, earning her Master's Degree +30 from Southeastern University with certification in administration and supervision. She earned additional certifications as a School Supervisor of Instruction and Supervisor of Student Teaching as well as PIP (Professional Improvement Program) certification through the state of Louisiana, demonstrating her lifelong commitment to educational excellence.

Beginning her teaching career in Washington Parish, Jerry shared her love for music with students and continued teaching music in the Bogalusa School System. Jerry taught for 36 years before retiring. Jerry’s contributions to church, education, and music touched many lives. She leaves behind a legacy of passion, perseverance, and dedication to her faith, and her students.

She was preceded in death by her parents: Julius Raymond Marshall and Katherine Torrence Marshall and one brother: Kenneth Raymond Marshall.

She leaves to cherish her memory: a loving and dedicated husband of 54 years, Leonard Napoleon Franklin; their daughter, Deanna LaShaune Franklin Joseph (Anthony Joseph,) Gray, LA; two devoted sisters, Gwendolyn Ann Marshall London (Leonard London), Hammond, LA and Beverly Jean Marshall Williams (Anthony Williams), Independence, LA; her brother, Wendon Julius Marshall, Bogalusa, LA and two cherished godchildren, Millicent Nina Franklin Chaney (Joseph Chaney), New Orleans, LA and Al Scott, II, Memphis, TN, as well as a number of brothers-in-law and sisters-in law, and a host of relatives and friends.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, April 19, 2025 from 9:00AM – 11:00AM followed by the funeral service at 11:00AM at Metropolitan Baptist Church 1640 Charlevoix Street, Bogalusa, LA 70427 with Rev. Rodney Barney – Pastor Officiating. Interment will be held at the Bogalusa Cemetery. 

Crain and Sons Funeral Home – Bogalusa are in charge of arrangements.