On September 30, 2022, Franklin Skates, Sr., peacefully left to enter God's Kingdom. He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. At an early age, Franklin joined the United States Marines Corps and later transitioned into the United States Army. Franklin utilized his  skillset of being a Mechanic in the United States Army. After more than twenty years of serving his country, he retired as a Staff Sergeant.

He later enjoyed his wonder years spending time with his grandkids and watching his favorite football team, the Dallas Cowboys, with his best friend and son, Frank Jr.

Mr. Franklin Alonzo Skates, in his 57th year, passed from this life on Friday evening, September 30, 2022 from his home in Muskogee.

Franklin was preceded in death by Franklin Nathaniel Skates and Oscar Nathaniel Skates.

He is survived by: wife of 30 years, Angela Skates; mother, Carolyn Mae Skates; son, Franklin Alonzo Skates Jr.(Peyton); stepdaughter, Lanita Arvie-Bennett (Michael Bennett); daughters, LaTasha Skates and Latoya Skates; sisters, Vatrice Skates, Amanda Dews (Johnny Dews), Mary Skates, and Tasia Skates; brothers, Rodna Skates (Robin Skates), Tyrone Skates, and Aunt June Coleman; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

The Final Salute for Franklin will commence on Friday, October 7, 2022 at the Tenth Hour in the Fort Gibson National Cemetery in Fort Gibson, Ok.

You may visit him, as he slumbers in peaceful repose in The People's Chapel of the Keith D. Biglow Funeral Directors, Inc., in Muskogee on Thursday, October 6, 2022 between the hours of 1:00 PM and 6:00 PM.