Franklin, Hershell , age 52, of McDonald Chapel, AL, went home to be with his lord on Monday, July 14, 2008. He was a member of McDonald Chapel United Methodist Church. "Hershell was a devoted husband, who never met a stranger. He was fun loving and kind hearted, and will be greatly missed." Funeral Services will be held at Valhalla Funeral Home on Thursday, July 17, 2008 at 2:00 p.m. with burial in Valhalla Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Thursday, July 17, 2008 from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harvey and Lillian Franklin; his brother, J.C. Franklin and his sister, Janice Franklin Estis. He is survived by his wife, Diana H. Franklin; his daughter, Julie (Ronnie) Jones; his grandsons, Justin, Dylan and Daniel Jones; his sister, Linda Franklin Clark; his special cousin, Tim Franklin; numerous nieces, nephews and extended family. The family request memorial contributions be sent to the Minor Heights Fire Dept., 1135 Broad Street, Minor Heights, AL 35224. The family wishes to express their thanks to UAB physicians and staff, and special thanks to the ER staff and the Minor Heights Fire Dept. for the love and care they gave to Hershell and his family.