Franklin Doyal (Cotton) Benton was born September 25, 1930 in Ray, Oklahoma to Frank J. and Mattie (Thornburg) Benton. He served in the United States Air Force during the Korean War. Franklin worked as a carpenter all his life and was a member of the carpenters union. In his spare time he enjoyed dancing, gardening, reading, picking blackberries, Gaither films, and studying the Bible. Franklin departed this life on May 2, 2015 at the age of 84. He was preceded in death by his parents; a baby sister, Rose; a brother, Clifton H. Benton; and a great-granddaughter, Triniti Rain. Franklin is survived by his children, Shellie and her husband, Denus Benton of Catoosa, Oklahoma, Randy Benton of Spring, Texas, Margaret Coe of Oklahoma City, OK, and Calvin Benton of Haskell, OK; his siblings, Carrie Harris of Cherokee County, OK, Harold Benton and his wife, Jean, of Tulsa, Hazel Keeton and her husband, Denzil of Nebraska, Helen Ishmael of Allen, OK, and Walt Benton of Wagoner; ten grandchildren, four great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; other relatives and friends. A graveside funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. Wednesday, May 6, 2015 at Fort Gibson National Cemetery. The Reverend Bill Phillips will officiate. Military Rites will be performed by the Tinker Air Force Base Honor Guard, of which Franklin's grandson is a member. Mallett Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.