Armando William Franklin

Armando William Franklin, 85, of Pueblo, Colorado, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on October 15, 2025.

Armando was born on January 24, 1940, in Colmor, New Mexico, to Elizabeth (Grant) Franklin and Alfonso Franklin. He was raised in Blanca, Colorado, surrounded by a large and loving family. A proud graduate of Sierra Grande High School, Class of 1958, Armando went on to serve his country honorably in the U.S. Army, completing a tour in Vietnam from 1964 to 1965.

After his military service, Armando began a long and dedicated career at CF&I, where he worked for over 40 years. He married the love of his life, Betty (Martinez) Franklin, and together they built a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, and deep family bonds. This year marked 60 years of their marriage—a legacy of partnership and devotion.

Family was Armando’s greatest passion. He found joy and companionship in the outdoors, often spending time fishing, hunting, and camping with his beloved brothers Henry and Eloy. Many treasured memories were made in the mountains, where Armando passed on his love of nature to his sons and grandchildren, teaching them how to fish, hunt, and appreciate the simple beauty of time spent together.

Armando is preceded in death by his parents, Elizabeth and Alfonso Franklin; his mother-in-law Donna Cordova; his grandson Adrian Aaron Franklin; and siblings Alfonso Franklin Jr., Henry Franklin, Anna Gallegos, Eloy Franklin, Filiberto Franklin, Eddie Franklin, Tito Franklin, Ralph Franklin, Simon Franklin, Henrietta Franklin, Floyd Franklin, and Betty Gonzales.

He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Betty (Martinez) Franklin; sons William (Renee) Franklin and Jaime (Kristin) Franklin; grandchildren William (Ashley) Franklin, Kyle Franklin, Alec Franklin, Anthony (Bella) Franklin, and Alyssa Franklin; and great-grandchildren Liam Franklin, Aria Franklin, and Willow Franklin. He is also survived by siblings Eloy (Rose) Franklin and Connie DeHerrera, along with many cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends who will miss him deeply.

Armando will be remembered for his strength, generosity, and the deep love he had for his family. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the stories that will be shared for generations to come.

Special thank you to Gentiva Hospice & Home Instead Care Services.

Funeral Service, 11 am, Tues., Oct. 21, 2025 at First United Methodist Church.  Internment, Roselawn Cemetery.

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