Barry Franklin, Sr. was born in Bossier Parish on October 21, 1959, and went to be with the Lord on October 15, 2025, after a long battle with his health.

A celebration of his life will be held on Friday, October 24, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Aulds Funeral Home.

Barry was preceded in death by his father, Robert Franklin; his mother, Mary Franklin; and his brother, Neal Franklin.

He is survived by his children, Angela Smolik (Danny), Dorothy Harville (Ben), Barry Franklin, Jr., and Curtis Southern (Shannon); his loving girlfriend, Kim Carlson, and her children, Felicia, Crissy, Matt, and Jon; his grandchildren, Bronson, Teagan, Hollie (Mason), CJ, Cole, and Makayla; and the mother of his children, Elsa Franklin; as well as, many extended family members and dear friends who were blessed to have known him.

Barry—known as "Bear" to many who loved him—was born and raised in Bossier City, Louisiana, and was a proud Bossier High School Bearkat alumnus. He enjoyed having a good time and loved playing pool, even competing in Las Vegas tournaments a few times. In his younger days, he worked as a bouncer on the Bossier Strip and later spent many years as an appliance repairman with American Appliance.

Everyone who knew Barry knew he loved life and had a gift for making people laugh. He always had a good story to tell and a way of bringing joy to those around him.

The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to the staff at Christus Highland for their care and life-saving efforts.