|
Post a reply || Back to NFA Class Memorial Page.. Thomas Christian Franklin - NFA Teacher and Coach
Replies to this post
|
|
Post a reply || Back to NFA Class Memorial Page.. Thomas Christian Franklin - NFA Teacher and Coach
Replies to this post
|
Thomas Christian Franklin passed away suddenly at his home in San Antonio, Texas on October 9, 2016 at the age of 67. Tom was born on November 21, 1948 in Mineola, New York to Thomas Francis and Greta (Pahl) Franklin. He grew up in Great Neck, New York and graduated from Great Neck South High School in 1966 where he ran track and cross-country, and was a wrestler. Following high school, he received a scholarship to run track and cross-country at Emporia State University (Kansas) and graduated in 1970 with a degree in health science and physical education. In 1972, Tom began teaching and coaching at Newburgh Free Academy in Newburgh, New York, where he taught health education and coached track and field, and cross-country for 32 years. While at NFA, he was an active member of the Newburgh Teachers’ Association and local delegate of the New York State United Teachers. Coach Franklin took many track and field athletes, cross-country runners, and cross-country teams to state and national championship meets, and one athlete to the 1984 Olympic Trials. For many years, he co-owned and operated the Stroudsburg Cross-Country Camp in East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania. After retiring from NFA he continued to train athletes for marathons and other races. He encouraged so many to “go the distance” and “finish strong.” He is survived by his son, Christian Franklin (and wife Karen of Fredericksburg, Virginia), his daughter Amanda Millican (and husband Elliot of Pearland, Texas), his five grandsons (Matthew Franklin, Preston Millican, Connor Franklin, Patrick Millican, and Jacoby Franklin), and his great-aunt Susie Franklin (of Timberlake, North Carolina). He was predeceased by his parents, his sister, Lori Smith, and his great-uncle, Albert Franklin. Tom loved coaching, traveling, and all sports. Most of all, he loved spending time with his family, especially his grandsons. His family and friends will always remember his enthusiasm, indomitable spirit, and contagious smile and laugh. A memorial will be held on November 23, 2016 at Brooks Funeral Home, 481 Gidney Avenue, in Newburgh. Visitation will be between 4:00 and 6:00 p.m., with a prayer service at 5:00. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made payable to the NFA Track and Field Booster Club or the NFA Cross-Country Booster Club, and mailed to the NFA Athletic Office, 201 Fullerton Ave., Newburgh, NY 12550.