Franklin Wayne Bedwell

Franklin Wayne Bedwell, 82, of Hopewell, VA, passed away on Thursday, April 2, 2026. He was preceded in death by his parents, Z.L. Franklin Bedwell and Nell Frances Scott Bedwell; his wife of 51 years, Sallie Murty Bedwell; and son, Richard Shawn Bedwell.

After graduating high school, Franklin served in the Army Airborne Special Forces -101st. Airborne Divison. He then made his career as a Senior Service Tech for Columbia Gas of VA for more than 43 years. Franklin enjoyed hunting and fishing and was a member of the Hopewell Hunt Club.

He is survived by his devoted friend and caregiver, Patricia Piner; daughter, Kelly Bedwell Martin; granddaughters, Nellie Martin, Sallie Martin, Mary Bedwell, and Erika Bedwell; and great-grandson, Richard Wayne Kashiswabara-Martin.

Franklin was a devoted husband, father, Poppy, and friend. He will be truly missed.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in his honor to the Wounded Warrior Project or Disabled American Veterans.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00am on Saturday, April 11, 2026 at the Hopewell Chapel of J.T. Morriss & Son Funeral Home.