Franklin was born in 1936 in Holly Ridge, North Carolina where he grew up in a large family with three sisters and five brothers. As a young man, he loved fishing in the Morris Landing Bay area. Later in life, he moved to Texas where for many years he worked in the Gulf Coast shrimping industry. Franklin loved the beaches, playing his guitar and harmonica. In the 1960's, Franklin married Mary Louise Montoya and together they raised four children. Franklin and Mary shared 33 years of marriage until her passing in 1994. In 1999 he married Mary Lou Riley and were together 27 years before her passing in 2026.

Franklin is survived by his son Frank J. Hansley, daughters Wanda L. Garcia (Francisco) and Rose M. Mejia (Jose) and his brother Kirby Hansley (Joan). He also leaves behind 11 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his 3 sisters, 4 brothers, his daughter Mona L. Lackey, his 1st wife Mary Louise Montoya and his 2nd wife Mary Lou Riley.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Jose Mejia, Francisco Garcia, Eddie Guajardo Jr., Mason Mejia and Antonio Garcia. Franklin will be remembered by his love of the water, the stories he shared and the many memories he created with those who loved him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by his family and friends.