Franklin Johnson

(From Parker Mortuary)

Franklin Hannibal Johnson passed away peacefully on August 7, 2024. Born on December 8, 1934, in McCamey, Texas, Franklin attended the Austin School for the Blind before earning a degree in psychology from Texas Tech University. He later obtained a master’s degree in vocational rehabilitation.

Franklin dedicated many years of his career to the Texas State Commission for the Blind before transitioning to Mississippi State University, where he played a pivotal role in developing computer software for the visually impaired. He traveled the country giving seminars on new technology, always staying ahead of emerging trends. After retiring, Franklin settled in Joplin, Missouri, where he spent the last 20 years of his life.

In Joplin, Franklin quickly became an integral part of the community. He served on the board of the Independent Living Center and was an active member of the Joplin Exchange Club. His blindness never held him back from embracing new technology—Franklin was an avid user of smartphones and computers, delighting in emailing friends, sending daily “good morning” texts, and participating in chat rooms where he made connections across the United States.

Franklin’s guide dogs, from Guide Dogs for the Blind in San Rafael, were a significant part of his life. He found joy in simple pleasures, whether it was having breakfast with friends at local Joplin cafés, listening to books with his guide dog Schneider at his feet, or enjoying the company of one of his rescued cats on his lap.

Franklin is survived by his daughter, Julie West, and son-in-law, Steve West of Southlake, Texas; granddaughter, Bridges Kaminski of Houston, Texas; and grandson, Desmond West of Austin, Texas. Over the years, he also adopted many new friends and extended family. Denise and Paul Morris of Neosho, Missouri, were his caretakers and best friends for over 17 years. Their bond grew even stronger recently when they lovingly adopted Franklin’s guide dog Schneider after his passing. Franklin was deeply grateful for their unwavering loyalty, beautiful friendship, and for welcoming Schneider into their home.

Franklin also cherished the faithfulness and friendship of Greg Stockburger of Joplin, Missouri, who ensured Franklin made it to every appointment, errand, or coffee run over many years.

Franklin’s life was supported by a village of compassionate individuals. The wonderful nurses from Independent Living, Integrity Hospice, and Westgate at Wildwood Ranch kept him healthy and comfortable throughout his later years, providing invaluable care in the final months of his life. Additionally, Parkview Animal Hospital lovingly cared for all of Franklin's guide dogs and other animals over the years with extraordinary kindness and attention.

In accordance with his wishes, Franklin donated his body to medical research for the study of blindness and requested not to have a formal service. Instead, please honor Franklin’s memory by enjoying a cup of coffee or a meal with your family or chosen family. Or if your so inclined, consider donating to Guide Dogs for the Blind https://secure.qgiv.com/for/d-ecdvuf/info/IBG0N22?_ga=2.22453947.1218212934.1723822257-570347262.1723822257. Take a moment below to share a story about him, remembering his warmth, humor, and zest for life. Let these stories be a celebration of the lasting impact he had on those who knew and loved him.