Atlanta
(2008-09-09)
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David Franklin passed away Sunday at the age of 65.
You may not know the name David Franklin but political consultant and friend Tom Houck says Franklin had a major role behind names you do know.
HOUCK: Maynard Jackson, Andrew Young, Bill Campbell and Shirley Franklin.
Shirley and David Franklin met in Washington D.C. and later married. They moved to Atlanta in the early 1970s. Shortly after, David met Maynard Jackson who was the city's vice mayor at the time. Later when Jackson first ran for mayor he tapped David to head his campaign finances. Eventually, David Franklin rose to become Jackson's chief strategist.
Tom Houck calls David's passing the end of an era.
HOUCK: From the beginning of black elected politics in Atlanta he was very involved and with his death on Sunday, we have lost an icon.
David and Shirley Franklin divorced long before she was elected Mayor. But in a statement, Shirley said David will also be remembered for his business savvy and confidence.
His funeral is scheduled for Thursday morning at 11 at RadCliffe Presbyterian Church in Atlanta.\ © Copyright 2009, WABE
