Bennie Lee Franklin, 72, of Rustburg, died Sunday, May 21, 2023.  He and the former Connie Allen were married November 10, 1970.

Born in Lynchburg, August 6, 1950, he was a son of the late Hazel Lawrence and Benjamin A. Franklin.  He served his country in the United States Navy. Bennie was the owner and operator of Franklin Auto Repair.  He loved to race and won many racing championships at the South Boston Raceway.  Bennie was always willing to help others in need and gave everything to his family.  He loved fishing and attending baseball games with his family.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by two sons, Benjamin James "Ben" Franklin and Laura of Franklin, TN, and Brandon Allen Franklin of Northern VA; one sister, Linda Dale Franklin Warford of TX; three aunts, Frances Reynolds, Levay Hall both of Rustburg and Martha Lawrence of Fredericksburg; numerous nieces and nephews; and a host of cousins.

He was preceded in death by his niece, Susan Holt.

A graveside service officiated by Rev. Steve Briggs will be held 1 p.m., Friday, May 26, 2023, at Virginia Memorial Park with Military Rites Accorded by American Legion Post #16.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at Virginia Memorial Park.