Morris Arnold Franklin

    It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our father Morris Arnold Franklin on June 10, 2024, at the age of 99. Formerly of Webster and Natick, MA and a long-time resident of Miami Beach, FL. Preceded in death by his wife Marilyn (Levinsky) Franklin and brothers William Franklin and Jacob Franklin. He is survived by his children, Florence Silberman, Miriam McGettrick, and David Franklin, their spouses, his grandson Robert Tiger and numerous nieces and nephews.

    Morris, known as “Murray,” was the youngest of 3 brothers, who were lovingly referred to as the Franklin “Boyus.” As a child, he was told he would need to learn to play an instrument even though he had no initial interest, so he chose the saxophone, figuring it would be impossible to obtain one. Much to his chagrin, his parents presented him with one. Turns out he was a natural – a musical prodigy who went on to master not only the saxophone, but the bassoon, clarinet and flute. He started playing saxophone professionally at the age of 15 with the big band The Teddy Mack Orchestra.

    When WWII broke out, Morris was called to serve and did so valiantly in the Army Infantry in the Philippines and then in the occupying forces in Japan. After the war, he attended the prestigious New England Conservatory of Music to further develop his natural musical talent. He went on to a successful musical career, playing bassoon for the Boston Symphony and multi-instruments for the Shubert Theater House Band among others. He garnered a reputation as one of the best and most sought-after sight readers on the East Coast.

    After the passing of his beloved wife, Marilyn, Morris raised his 3 children in Miami Beach, Florida. He was an avid reader and loved doing the puzzles (any and all kinds) in the newspaper, keeping his mind sharp for 99 years. He had a wonderful sense of humor and wit that never dulled. And he always had room for dessert.

    There will be a graveside service at The Hebrew Cemetery at Chevra Kadisha Cemetery in Worcester, MA on June 16, 2024, at 1:00 PM. In lieu of flowers we ask that you send a Tribute Gift in his name to the New England Conservatory of Music, where he studied music and went on to become a professional musician. https://necmusic.edu/give