Visitation
Mt. Zion Baptist Church
2207 North 2nd Street
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53212
Tuesday 2/24,
9:00 am - 11:00 am
Service
Mt. Zion Baptist Church
2207 North 2nd Street
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53212
Tuesday 2/24,
11:00 am
Memorial
In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes contributions in support of his grandchildren’s and great-grandchildren’s continuing education, honoring LaMarr’s enduring belief in the power and importance of education. Gifts may be directed to his daughter, Monique Graham.
LaMarr Franklin was born on September 29, 1945, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and was baptized at St. Francis Catholic Church, establishing the strong foundation of faith that guided his life. A proud graduate of Messmer High School, he carried discipline, courage, and determination into every chapter of his journey — including his honorable service as aContinue Reading
Watch Tribute
Stephen Motte
left a message on March 6, 2026:
You will not know me, but I worked alongside LaMarr at OPD at IBM, way back in 1975. LaMarr was my roommate at my first 100% Club in San Francisco. He was a consummate professional and an accomplished salesperson. He shared many stories about the challenges and the prejudices he faced in his territory, on the southside of Milwaukee in the 70's. Examples included being pulled over by the police and having to prove his ownership of a beautiful bright green Jaguar, and having his potential customer call the OPD management to prove that he in fact worked for IBM. He never showed any anger, though I was angry for him, and he held his head up and never let the idiot racists win. I am proud to have known him; he was a class act each and every day. May God bless him and his family, he had a wonderful life.
John Cornell
left a message on February 25, 2026:
Lamarr was not simply present in our community; he was purposeful in it.
Lamarr led the search committee for CVI that brought on a Lt Garza as President — a pivotal decision that helped shape our next chapter and strengthen our mission as we moved into our new Corporate HQ.
His thoughtful discernment and commitment to excellence ensured that CVI would continue to serve veterans with integrity and vision.
Lamarr was very influential. WMLK Economic Development Corporation, Northcott Neighborhood House. His unwavering dedication to families and youth across our city is goes unmatched. A man of faith — not only in word, but in action. His impact will be felt for generations.
Donna Page
left a message on February 24, 2026:
Mr. Franklin was a true leader, visionary and man of honor. The city of Milwaukee will truly miss his presence and we send heartfelt condolences to the family.
LaMont E. Nicholson
left a message on February 24, 2026:
Grew up in the same neighborhood. Knew him from childhood.
Rheba Currie
left a message on February 24, 2026:
Franklin Family, I'm so sorry for you loss. Lamarr and I worked together back in the IBM days. Always a man working to make his community better.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Adrian and Stella Smith
left a message on February 23, 2026:
Rest in peace gentle soul. Thank you for ever and always having kinds words and a warm heart.
Designer's Choice Bouquet was purchased for the family of LaMarr Franklin by Adrian and Stella Smith. Send Flowers
Adrian and Stella Smith
left a message on February 23, 2026:
Our prayers are with you. We pray that you receive the lord's peace and strength in your time of grief.
Love always Adrian and Stella.
Anonymous
left a message on February 23, 2026:
In memory of a life well lived. Wishing peace and comfort to everyone who loved LaMarr.
White Designer's Choice was purchased for the family of LaMarr Franklin by Anonymous. Send Flowers
Anonymous
left a message on February 22, 2026:
So sorry I cant be there to give my personal condolences; I am holding you up in prayer.
Country Basket Blooms was purchased for the family of LaMarr Franklin by Anonymous. Send Flowers
Thomas Jacobson
left a message on February 20, 2026:
LaMarr Franklin, Boobie Moore, and I founded the Garfield Avenue Blues, Jazz, Gospel, and Arts Festival, Garfield Fest. We wanted to give back to and economically empower the community, and showcase Black artists and entertainers. LaMarr was a great friend and will be missed. I send my condolences to his family for the loss of an immeasurable force that fought for the good of everyone in the Northside community.
Thomas Jacobson
left a message on February 20, 2026:
LaMarr Franklin, Boobie Moore, and I founded the Garfield Avenue Blues, Jazz, Gospel, and Arts Festival, Garfield Fest. We wanted to give back to and economically empower the community, and showcase Black artists and entertainers. LaMarr was a great friend and will be missed. I send my condolences to his family for the loss of an immeasurable force that fought for the good of everyone in the Northside community.
Dennis McClain
left a message on February 19, 2026:
On behalf of the McClain Family, Richard, Linda (Watts), Lisa and Dennis we will remember as our long childhood friend growing up together on 12th and 13th Locust. We shared so many great moments with LaMarr over the years. What a blessing in knowing such a wonderful man..
RIP
Dennis McClain
Daniel and Henrietta Smith
left a message on February 18, 2026:
Our prayers are with you stay strong.
left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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Your condolence may need to be approved before it appears on this page. It may not appear immediately once submitted.
Stephen Motte
left a message on March 6, 2026:
You will not know me, but I worked alongside LaMarr at OPD at IBM, way back in 1975. LaMarr was my roommate at my first 100% Club in San Francisco. He was a consummate professional and an accomplished salesperson. He shared many stories about the challenges and the prejudices he faced in his territory, on the southside of Milwaukee in the 70's. Examples included being pulled over by the police and having to prove his ownership of a beautiful bright green Jaguar, and having his potential customer call the OPD management to prove that he in fact worked for IBM. He never showed any anger, though I was angry for him, and he held his head up and never let the idiot racists win. I am proud to have known him; he was a class act each and every day. May God bless him and his family, he had a wonderful life.
John Cornell
left a message on February 25, 2026:
Lamarr was not simply present in our community; he was purposeful in it.
Lamarr led the search committee for CVI that brought on a Lt Garza as President — a pivotal decision that helped shape our next chapter and strengthen our mission as we moved into our new Corporate HQ.
His thoughtful discernment and commitment to excellence ensured that CVI would continue to serve veterans with integrity and vision.
Lamarr was very influential. WMLK Economic Development Corporation, Northcott Neighborhood House. His unwavering dedication to families and youth across our city is goes unmatched. A man of faith — not only in word, but in action. His impact will be felt for generations.
Donna Page
left a message on February 24, 2026:
Mr. Franklin was a true leader, visionary and man of honor. The city of Milwaukee will truly miss his presence and we send heartfelt condolences to the family.
LaMont E. Nicholson
left a message on February 24, 2026:
Grew up in the same neighborhood. Knew him from childhood.
Rheba Currie
left a message on February 24, 2026:
Franklin Family, I'm so sorry for you loss. Lamarr and I worked together back in the IBM days. Always a man working to make his community better.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Adrian and Stella Smith
left a message on February 23, 2026:
Rest in peace gentle soul. Thank you for ever and always having kinds words and a warm heart.
Designer's Choice Bouquet was purchased for the family of LaMarr Franklin by Adrian and Stella Smith. Send Flowers
Adrian and Stella Smith
left a message on February 23, 2026:
Our prayers are with you. We pray that you receive the lord's peace and strength in your time of grief.
Love always Adrian and Stella.
Anonymous
left a message on February 23, 2026:
In memory of a life well lived. Wishing peace and comfort to everyone who loved LaMarr.
White Designer's Choice was purchased for the family of LaMarr Franklin by Anonymous. Send Flowers
Anonymous
left a message on February 22, 2026:
So sorry I cant be there to give my personal condolences; I am holding you up in prayer.
Country Basket Blooms was purchased for the family of LaMarr Franklin by Anonymous. Send Flowers
Thomas Jacobson
left a message on February 20, 2026:
LaMarr Franklin, Boobie Moore, and I founded the Garfield Avenue Blues, Jazz, Gospel, and Arts Festival, Garfield Fest. We wanted to give back to and economically empower the community, and showcase Black artists and entertainers. LaMarr was a great friend and will be missed. I send my condolences to his family for the loss of an immeasurable force that fought for the good of everyone in the Northside community.
Thomas Jacobson
left a message on February 20, 2026:
LaMarr Franklin, Boobie Moore, and I founded the Garfield Avenue Blues, Jazz, Gospel, and Arts Festival, Garfield Fest. We wanted to give back to and economically empower the community, and showcase Black artists and entertainers. LaMarr was a great friend and will be missed. I send my condolences to his family for the loss of an immeasurable force that fought for the good of everyone in the Northside community.
Dennis McClain
left a message on February 19, 2026:
On behalf of the McClain Family, Richard, Linda (Watts), Lisa and Dennis we will remember as our long childhood friend growing up together on 12th and 13th Locust. We shared so many great moments with LaMarr over the years. What a blessing in knowing such a wonderful man..
RIP
Dennis McClain
Daniel and Henrietta Smith
left a message on February 18, 2026:
Our prayers are with you stay strong.
left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
×
Your condolence may need to be approved before it appears on this page. It may not appear immediately once submitted.
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