02/12/2026
Franklin Francis “Frank” Franklin, 58, of Chatsworth, departed this world unexpectedly on Tuesday, February 10, 2026 while arguing with a Dollar General cashier over expired coupons and a rain check from 2019.
Born in Dalton but “raised wherever Mama’s boyfriend was stationed,” Frank spent the better part of his life perfecting two crafts: professional-level procrastination and an aggressively committed Big Bird impersonation that no one asked for. For nearly two decades, Frank could be found at children’s birthday parties, used car lot grand openings, and at least one court-ordered community event dressed head-to-toe in a homemade yellow-feathered suit he insisted was “union quality.” Though legally advised to stop referring to himself as “the Southeast’s Official Big Bird,” he never wavered in spirit—or in falsetto.
Frank briefly held a variety of jobs, including assistant night manager at a fireworks tent, mobile pressure washer (equipment repossessed), seasonal Spirit Halloween employee, and part-time motivational speaker at a v**e shop’s grand reopening. He was most proud of his 11-month stint as “Entertainment Director” for a now-defunct inflatable bounce house company.
Frank was preceded in death by his third riding lawn mower, two pet iguanas (Sheryl and Sheryl II), and a 1998 Pontiac Sunfire that he claimed was “about to turn a corner.”
He leaves behind a distinguished line of ex-wives, including Tammy Sue Franklin of Ringgold (married 2004–2006), Brandy Nicole Franklin of Calhoun (2008–2009), Lisa Ann Franklin of Resaca (2010–2011), Crystal Dawn Franklin of “somewhere near Ellijay” (2013–2014), and an additional former spouse whose name has been legally redacted at her request. Each marriage ended amicably, in the sense that restraining orders eventually expired.
He is survived by his mother, Brenda Kay Franklin of Chatsworth; his cousin Daryl (who still has his ladder); three children who “prefer privacy at this time”; and countless community members who once heard him yell, “Caw-caw!” from behind a hay bale.
Frank enjoyed gas station boiled peanuts, late-night Facebook Live rants about “the system,” and passionately correcting people about the “correct plumage density” of his costume. He firmly believed he was one viral video away from greatness.
A memorial service will be held at a later date once the family retrieves the Big Bird suit from evidence. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made toward outstanding storage unit fees.
Arrangements are entrusted to Ahmad D’Shanti Funeral Home, where our family will treat your family like family.
