Franklin K. Naifeh

With profound sadness, we bid farewell to our beloved Husband, Father, and Grandfather, who departed from this world on May 28, 2024. He was 87 years old.

Franklin lived a life of remarkable hard work, adventure, and wisdom. He was born on January 30, 1937 to Zeak and Rose Naifeh, at Mercy Hospital in Oklahoma City. He brought joy and warmth to all who knew him, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of family, friends, and acquaintances.

Franklin left the University of Oklahoma to join his family in the wholesale liquor business, working alongside his parents and siblings. He approached his work with passion and dedication, earning the respect and admiration of colleagues and peers.

Outside of his professional pursuits, Franklin cherished his time in the Men’s Grill at Quail Creek Golf and Country Club. And recently he has been enjoying his time playing croquette at Oklahoma City Golf and Country Club. He also enjoyed sharing a cocktail and a story with those around him.  

Franklin will forever be remembered for his unwavering love and devotion to his family but most especially to his two loves. He was married to Connie Homsey Naifeh for 42 years who passed away in 2009. He remarried his second love, Edna Mae Naifeh in 2018. He enjoyed sharing his stories, offering his knowledge of history, comfort those around him, and boundless affection to those closest to him. Though his physical presence may be gone, his spirit will live on in the countless stories he shared with others.

He is survived by his wife, Edna Mae Naifeh, sons and daughters-in-law, Todd and Libby, Justin and Monique, and Blair and Stephanie all of Oklahoma City.  He is also survived by his eight grandchildren Margo, Bo, Jack, Caroline, Kate, Gabriel, Leilah, and Rose.     

A celebration of Franklin’s life will be held on May 31, 2024 at St. Elijah Antiochian Orthodox Church at 10:30 AM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Flowers that Do Not Wither Fund at St. Elijah, in honor of Franklin's memory.

As we mourn the loss of Franklin, let us also rejoice in the privilege of having known him, and carry forward the light of his legacy in our own lives.

Rest in peace, dear Franklin. You will be dearly missed, but never forgotten.