Johnathan Tyler Franklin

Johnathan Tyler Franklin, known to all who loved him as Tyler, passed away on October 26, 2026, in Lubbock, Texas, at the age of 41. He was surrounded by his family and the love they shared with him. Born on April 10, 1985, in Lubbock, Texas, Tyler was the son of Jerry Dee Franklin and Nancy Ann Barron Franklin. 

Tyler graduated from O'Donnell High School in 2003 before attending South Plains College, where he earned his Associate of Science degree as he pursued his calling in emergency medical services. He continued his education and training, completing the basic, intermediate, and paramedic levels of certification.

For more than two decades, Tyler dedicated his career to helping others through emergency medical services. He served as a paramedic with UMC for 14 years before becoming the Director of EMS for Lynn County, a position he held for five years. He later served as Director of EMS in Brownfield before continuing his work as a paramedic in the emergency department at Lubbock Heart Hospital. Tyler's commitment to his profession extended beyond his own work. He also taught EMS classes at O'Donnell High School and instructed fellow paramedics, sharing his knowledge and experience with those preparing to serve their own communities. Throughout his career, he made a difference in the lives of others through his willingness to step forward when people needed help most. 

While Tyler devoted much of his life to caring for others, his heart belonged to the farm. From an early age, he rode the tractor alongside his dad, and that childhood connection grew into a lifelong love of farming. He continued helping on his dad's farm and was always willing to lend a hand to anyone who needed one. He also raised cattle and found fulfillment in the hard work and simple rewards of farm life. Farming was more than a dream for Tyler; it was a passion that stayed with him throughout his life.

Tyler was a man of faith and a member of First Baptist Church in O'Donnell. He enjoyed spending his free time hunting, fishing, bowling, and playing golf. As a devoted Texas Tech fan, he enthusiastically followed Red Raider sports.

Tyler's buddies were his rock! Travis, Jeff, Zach, Luke, Jack, Ryan, Tackitt, Chapman & Cody were always there for him. They were the best of friends and always made memories. We can't forget Chief, his devoted companion and dog!

Above all, Tyler treasured his family. Some of his happiest moments were spent with those he loved, especially his nieces and nephews, who held a particularly special place in his heart. Being their uncle was a role he embraced wholeheartedly, and the time he spent with them brought him immeasurable joy.Those who knew Tyler will remember him as a big-hearted man who would give the shirt off his back to someone in need. He was dedicated to putting others first, whether through his work as a paramedic, his willingness to help a neighbor, or the love he showed his family. To his nieces and nephews, he was the best uncle in the world. His generous spirit, caring heart, and commitment to others leave a lasting legacy in the lives of all who knew and loved him.

Tyler is survived by his parents, Jerry Dee Franklin and Nancy Ann Franklin; his sisters, Misty Taylor and her husband, Jeremy, and Kristy Robinson and her husband, Adam; his brother, Richard Franklin and his wife, Sabrina; and his many beloved nieces and nephews; Morgon, Macy, Makenna, Londyn, Ashtyn, Stella, Katie, Crystal & Kimberly. 

A Memorial Service will be held on Wednesday, November 4, 2026 at 11:00 am at the First Baptist Church, 701 Standefer Street, O'Donnell, Texas 79351.