Preston “Scott” Franklin, age 54, of the Turnerville Community, Clarkesville, Georgia, went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, August 18, 2026.

Born in Rome, Georgia on October 21, 1971, Scott was the beloved son of Dr. Kenneth Franklin and Francesca Fry Franklin of the Turnerville Community. He was a graduate of Central Heights Christian School, Class of 1989, and went on to further his education at Abraham Baldwin College.

From an early age, Scott possessed an extraordinary God-given talent for the game of baseball. At just 16 years old, he became one of the youngest players to be signed as a student prospect by the Atlanta Braves Minor League Baseball organization. The Braves continued to scout Scott throughout his college career until an arm injury brought his pursuit of professional baseball to an unexpected end. A gifted sidearm pitcher, Scott earned the nickname “Sling-Shot” for his unique delivery and impressive ability on the mound, throwing a baseball at speeds of up to 92 miles per hour. Though his baseball career did not unfold as he once dreamed, those years remained a special part of Scott’s story and a testament to his remarkable natural ability and determination.

Scott was employed with N.O.K. for many years and had previously worked in the construction industry. More than any occupation or accomplishment, however, Scott will be remembered for the person he was. He was a good-hearted man who genuinely loved life and loved people. He enjoyed the simple blessings of being surrounded by those he cared about, and nothing was more important to him than his family. His son, grandchildren, parents, sister, extended family, and friends held a special place in his heart. Scott was of the Baptist faith.

Those who knew Scott will remember his friendly spirit, his love for others, the stories and memories he shared, and a life that, although far too brief, left its mark upon many hearts. His family will forever treasure the memories made with him and find comfort in knowing that the love they shared does not end with his passing.

Scott was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Bill Franklin and Betty Gaines Cunningham; maternal grandparents, Freeman and Daisy Fry; and step-grandmother, Mabel Ray Fry.

Survivors include his parents, Dr. Kenneth and Francesca Fry Franklin; son and daughter-in-law, Preston Aaron and Destany Franklin; sister and brother-in-law, Michelle Franklin Shlapak and Greg Shlapak; beloved grandchildren, Preston James “P.J.” Franklin and Bentley Aaron Franklin; special aunt, Deborah Franklin; as well as several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and many friends.

Per Scott’s wishes, no formal services will be held. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Friday, August 21, 2026.

Flowers are accepted, or the family respectfully requests that memorial donations be made in memory of “Scott Franklin” to Disabled American Veterans Chapter No. 15 or to the Grant Reeves Honor Guard, 270 West Savannah Street, Toccoa, Georgia 30577.

An online guest registry is available for the Franklin family at mcgaheegriffinandmcentire.com.

McGahee-Griffin & McEntire Funeral Home of Cornelia, Georgia (706/778-8668) is honored to serve the family of Preston “Scott” Franklin.