Galen Lee Franklin, 89 of Taylorville, passed away on Monday, January 26, 2026, in his home. He was born on August 23, 1936, in Taylorville, the son of Galen L. and Ruth E. (King) Franklin. He married Doris Elaine Rathgeber on August 12, 1956, in the Morrisonville United Methodist Church. Galen Lee was a member of the Taylorville First United Methodist Church and previously the Morrisonville United Methodist Church where he served on the church board. He was a member of the Morrisonville Masonic Lodge, Ansar Shrine, and Consistory for over 50 years as well as the Ansar Ag Corps. He retired after a long career in farming and served on the Palmer Elevator board. Galen Lee and Elaine enjoyed traveling, especially the over 40 years they wintered in Florida. More than anything, he loved his family, especially his grandchildren.
He is survived by his wife: Elaine Franklin of Taylorville; children: Rodney Franklin (Carole) of Taylorville, Jonell Bradle of Taylorville, and Sidney Franklin (Annette) of Georgetown, Kentucky; grandchildren: Nathan Franklin (Emma) of Rochester, Shawn Franklin (Lacey) of Taylorville, Evan May (Stephanie) of Hampton, West Virginia, Adrian Alexander (Kristen) of Georgetown, Kentucky, Adam Alexander of Winnetka, California, Austin James “A.J.” Alexander of Normal, and Andrew Alexander of Normal; great grandchildren: Sylas Franklin, Bennox Franklin, Elice Alexander, Zaxton Alexander, and one more on the way; siblings: Shirley Jones of Butler and Cheryl VanGerpen (Royce) of Spokane, Washington; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister: Donna Chappel; and brothers: Richard Franklin and Alan Franklin.
Mr. Franklin will be cremated, and a graveside service will be held at a later date at Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville. Memorials may be made to Taylorville First United Methodist Church or Shriners Children’s Hospital, 4400 Clayton Ave., St. Louis, Missouri 63110. McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.
