Franklin Jerome Wright, affectionately known as "Little Frankie," was born on Saturday, September 19, 1959, in Columbia, South Carolina, to Lula Mae Wright. He was lovingly reared by his late grandparents, Minnie Ida Wright and John Wright, Sr., whose guidance and unwavering love helped shape the man he became.

Franklin received his early education at Scott's Branch Elementary School and Summerton Middle School before graduating from the Historic Scott's Branch High School with the Class of 1976. Following graduation, he attended Morris College until answering the call to serve his country. In January 1977, he reported for military duty at Fort Jackson in Columbia, South Carolina. While serving, he continued his education through military programs. He dedicated more than 35 years of faithful and honorable service to the United States Army before receiving a medical honorable discharge in July 2012.

Throughout his distinguished military career, Franklin served during five major military operations: Desert Shield, Desert Storm, Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Freedom's Sentinel, and Operation Iraqi Freedom. His exceptional service earned him numerous military honors, including the Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, Armed Forces Reserve Medal with 20-Year Device (Silver Hourglass), Bronze Star Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal (Third Award), Joint Service Achievement Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Joint Meritorious Unit Award, and many other commendations recognizing his courage, dedication, and exemplary service.

At an early age, Franklin joined St. Mark AME Church. Upon returning to South Carolina in 2012, he faithfully renewed his membership and served wherever he was needed until his health declined. He also worshipped at Mt. Chapel Missionary Baptist Church. After sharing 11 wonderful years together, Franklin married the love of his life, the former Cassie Nelson, on March 6, 2021. Together they enjoyed traveling, making memories, and embracing every moment they shared.

Franklin was known for his infectious laughter, generous spirit, and willingness to help others. He took pride in keeping his neighborhood clean, mentoring young men in the community, and bringing people together. He was truly the life of every gathering and especially enjoyed entertaining family and friends during football season. A devoted Miami Dolphins fan, he could often be heard proudly declaring, "What about those Dolphins?"

On Saturday, August 1, 2026, Franklin Jerome Wright peacefully entered eternal rest at the Medical University of South Carolina Health Orangeburg in Orangeburg, South Carolina.

He leaves to cherish his precious memories: his devoted wife, Cassie Nelson Wright of the home; his loving children, Caleb Wright of Waldorf, Maryland, Gary (Latonya) Nelson of Orangeburg, South Carolina, Veronica Nelson Benbow of Columbia, South Carolina, and Emmanuel Morant of Manning, South Carolina; his beloved grandchildren, Dashawn Dukes, Deiondre Frierson, Aysia Nelson, Kingston Blackwell, and Kali Morant; his mother, Lula Mae Wright of Summerville, South Carolina; his godsister, Norine Brown of Summerton, South Carolina; his uncle and brother, Ervin (Mary) Wright of Summerton, South Carolina; his great-aunts, Willene Doctor of Arlington, Virginia, and Yvonne James of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; his brother-in-law, Ronald (Barbara) Nelson; his sisters-in-law, Iris (Raheem) Reynolds, Audrey House, and Cheryl (Kevin) Taylor; along with a host of other cherished relatives, friends, military brothers and sisters, neighbors, and loved ones who will forever treasure his memory. The family extends heartfelt appreciation to his devoted caregivers; Joanne Brunson, Stephanie Snider, Tracey Ceasar, Yvonne Roberts, Kali Wheeler, and Deiondre Frierson, for their compassionate care, unwavering support, and kindness shown throughout Franklin's journey.

Franklin will be laid to rest on Monday, August 10, 2026, at 9:00 am, at the Fort Jackson National Cemetery, located at 4170 Percival Road, Columbia, SC 29229.

Services have been entrusted to King-Fields Mortuary, Summerton, SC 29148.