Franklin Delano Ball, passed away peacefully on December 17, 2025, in Tomball, Texas, holding the hand of his son, Nathan Alexander Ball. He was born in Galveston, Texas, and was known from a young age for a character that was consistently kind, polite, and service oriented. Franklin lived a simple life defined by independence, adventure, and wisdom, leaving a lasting impact on all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Franklin graduated from Ball High School in 1958. He was known as a respectful young man who was always willing to help classmates and instructors, a courteous nature that stayed with him throughout his life.

Before entering civilian law enforcement, Franklin served in the United States Army as a Military Policeman. His duties included security work at Sandia Military Base in New Mexico, where he gained early experience in discipline, responsibility, and public safety.

Franklin joined the Texas City Police Department on January 2, 1965. After completing basic police training, he continued to expand his skills and served in several roles throughout his career, including dispatcher, accident investigator, and evening and midnight shift patrol officer. Franklin was able to achieve the rank of Patrol Sergeant before going into private security at Amoco Oil.

Franklin was an enthusiastic fisherman and could often be found at the Texas City Dike, casting his line in hopes of landing a big catch. He took great pleasure in teaching his young sons how to cast, sharing fishing tips, and using those moments to talk with them about law, order, and good character.

He was also known for his free and adventurous spirit, his love of life’s simple pleasures, and his passion for the open road. Franklin was often found riding his motorcycle or traveling to new places. He loved spending time with dogs and savoring a good cup of coffee paired with a cigarette. Those who knew him well will forever remember one of his favorite sayings: “It don’t cost nothing to look.”  Which usually led to him coming home with a new car or motorcycle!

Franklin was preceded in death by his parents, James and Irene Ball, and his beloved wife, Judy Francis Ball.

He is survived by his loving family: daughter Holly Lee and husband Kelly Lee; son Cary Ball and wife Jill Ball; son Wesley Ball and wife Charlotte Ball; son Nathan Ball and wife Margarita Ball; grandson Kirby Ball and wife Deah Ball; grandson Corey Ball and wife Rebeca Ball; grandson Brandon Ball; granddaughter Samantha Ball and fiancé Perry Rodenbeck; granddaughters Lyndsey Ball, Mackenzie Ball, and Kylie Ball; great-grandson Sebastian Ball; great-granddaughter Sophie Ball; step-grandsons Tyler Harris and Andrew Rockwell; and step-granddaughter Cyndie Rockwell.

A memorial service to honor Franklin’s life will be held on December 28, 2025, at 2:00 p.m., with visitation for family and friends from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., at Crowder Funeral Home, located at 851 FM 517 Rd. West, Dickinson, Texas 77539.