Franklin Neil Charles, 73, of Elkton, MD passed away on Saturday, June 15, 2024. Born in Grundy, VA on July 27, 1950, he was the son of the late James and Ola Bandy Charles.

Franklin retired as a truck driver, specializing in concrete hauling. He treasured the moments spent with his grandsons, keeping up with their busy lives, and his garage became his sanctuary, where he spent countless hours tinkering with various projects.

Survivors include his daughter, Bobbie Gandy (Martin), Elkton, MD; grandsons, Austin and Matthew; companion of 16 years, Florence O'Dowd; and siblings, Windal Charles, North East, MD, and Brenda Bonsall, Elkton, MD.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 37 years, Shirley Frye Charles; daughter, Patricia Welch; sisters, Willie Yates, Rhoda Stacy, Myrtle Charles, Beatrice Lester, and Helen Boegner; and brothers, James Charles, Woodrow Charles, and Ted Charles.

Funeral service will be held 10 AM, Thursday, June 20, 2024 at Hicks Home for Funerals, 103 W. Stockton Street, Elkton, MD 21921, with visitation beginning at 9 AM. Interment will be in Gilpin Manor Memorial Park, Elkton, MD.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children, Attn: Office of Development at 2900 Rocky Point Drive, Tampa, FL 33607.