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.