Joshua Heath Franklin's Obituary
Joshua Heath Franklin, 42, of Fort Myers, Florida, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, December 13, 2025.
Josh was born on November 28, 1983, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, the son of Joseph E. Franklin Jr. and Melissa Renee (Forrester) Hiatt. He was raised in Winston-Salem and attended R.J. Reynolds High School before later relocating to Fort Myers, Florida, where he made his home.
Josh had a deep love for the outdoors and found peace in nature, often capturing its beauty through photography. He proudly shared his work through his YouTube channel, where he promoted his photography and creativity. A true music enthusiast, Josh was an accomplished bass player who found joy and expression through music.
Known for his quick wit and infectious sense of humor, Josh always had a joke ready and could easily bring a smile to those around him. Above all, family meant everything to him. He was a devoted father, son, brother, and friend, and he lived his life guided by his faith as a believer in Jesus Christ.
He is survived by his beloved daughter, Zelda Michelle; his mother, Renee Hiatt of Fort Myers, Florida; his father, Joseph (Myra) Franklin Jr. of Winston-Salem, North Carolina; his siblings, John Jolly of Fort Myers, Florida, Amy Marshall of Naples, Florida, Melissa Vernon of Cape Coral, Florida, and Courtney Franklin of Winston-Salem, North Carolina; and his paternal grandmother, Louise Franklin of Winston-Salem, North Carolina. He is also survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins, and nieces who will cherish his memory.
Josh was preceded in death by his sister, Joy Kathleen Jolly; his maternal grandparents, Tom and Joyce Forrester; and his paternal grandfather, Joseph E. Franklin Sr.
A visitation will be held on Friday, December 19, 2025, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens, 1589 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers, Florida 33907. A graveside service will follow at 11:00 a.m.
Online condolences may be offered by visiting https://www.fortmyersmemorial.com.
Josh will be remembered for his loving heart, creative spirit, unwavering faith, and the laughter he shared so freely with others. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
Revelation 21:4 “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.”
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