Michael FranklinBenton, IL Michael Franklin, 38, of Benton, IL, died at 8:17a. m. Wednesday, September 25, 2013 at Franklin Hospital in Benton. Mr. Franklin was born on May 6, 1975 in Wheeling, WV the son of Robert E. Franklin and Cheryl (Reed) Franklin. He married the former Nancy Long on September 10, 1998 and she survives. Michael was a U.S. Navy Veteran, a talented tattoo artist, and drummer in the band Social Down. He enjoyed riding his Harley-Davidson Motorcycle and spending time with his son, Jacob. Surviving relatives include his wife, Nancy Franklin, Benton, IL, a son, Jacob Franklin, Benton, IL, mother, Cheryl Franklin, Benton, father, Robert E. Franklin, Petersburg, IN, two brothers, Harley Franklin, Petersburg, IN, Jason Franklin, Mt. Carmel, IL, paternal grandfather, William Franklin, three uncles, Lewis (Debbie) Barnhart, Benton, IL, Mark (Faye) Reed, Benton, IL, Michael (Donna) Barnhart, Carmichaels, PA, an aunt, Carla Barnhart, Benton, IL, Godmother, Connie Darr, Benton, IL, and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Mr. Franklin was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Louis and Patricia Barnhart, paternal grandmother, Betty Franklin, and an uncle Randy Barnhart. Graveside memorial services will be held at 11:00 a. m. Tuesday, October 1, 2013 at Masonic and Odd Fellows Cemetery in Benton with Pastor Bill Carter officiating. Visitation will be from 10:00 to 11:00 a. m. Tuesday at the Hobbs-Johnson Funeral Home & Crematory in Benton. Military honors will be performed by the Benton American Legion/V.F.W and the Navy Honor Squad. Memorial contributions may be made to the family to help with funeral expenses. Visit www.hobbsjohnson.com to sign the memorial guestbook.