Franklin Dee Long

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Franklin Dee Long, age 85, of Lawrenceburg, TN, who left us on September 22, 2025. He was born on July 6, 1940, in Waynesboro, TN, to the late Amos and Lula Bell Crawley Long.

On May 20, 1961, he married Lucretia Ann Whitehead, with whom he shared a beautiful life until her passing on January 8, 2021. Franklin’s profound love for Lucretia remained a guiding light in his life. In a testament to his resilience, he found companionship again when he married Lois Smotherman on March 7, 2022, embracing love anew.

For many years, Franklin poured his heart into his work as a Press Operator at the Murray Ohio Manufacturing Company, where he was known for his strong work ethic and kindness to colleagues. Franklin found great joy in being part of the community at the Salem Church of Christ, where he made lasting friendships and created cherished memories.

Franklin's spirit will continue to inspire those who knew him. He leaves behind countless memories and a legacy of love that will forever be cherished.

He is survived by his wife, Lois Smotherman Long of Lawrenceburg, TN; sons, Bobby Long (Natascha) of Lawrenceburg, TN, Andy Long (Becky Highland) of Waynesboro, TN, Randy Appleton of Lawrenceburg, TN, and Ricky Appleton (Stephanie) of Lawrenceburg, TN; daughters, Deanna Campbell (Larry) of Lawrenceburg, TN, Lucinda Belew (Bobby) of Lawrenceburg, TN, Alicia Isbell (Ryan Mathews) of Ethridge, TN, and Cathy Kelley (Terry) of Lawrenceburg, TN; special niece, Christi Carrington; 13 grandchildren; and 20 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Amos and Lula Bell Crawley Long; wife, Lucretia Whitehead Long; brothers, Amos Long Jr., Joe Long, James Long, and Thomas Long; and sisters, Frankie Skelton, Aileen Pulley, Blanche Couille, Willadean Matney, Peggy Stone, and Shirley Folks.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 25, 2025 from 11:00 am until 2:00 pm service time at Shackelford Funeral Directors in Waynesboro, TN.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, September 25, 2025 at 2:00 pm at Shackelford Funeral Directors in Waynesboro, TN with Keith Barnett and Bobby Belew officiating. Burial will follow in the Whitehead Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Aaron Wix, Daylon Chandler, Jacob Taylor, Micah Isbell, Isaac Isbell, and Zachary Roberson.