Cynthia Kisow Franklin

Cynthia Franklin, a lifelong lover of nature, and words passed away peacefully October 21, 2025.

Born with an inquisitive mind and a deep appreciation for the environment, Cynthia pursued her passion through higher education, earning a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from Rutgers University, a Master of Science in Biology from the University of Massachusetts, and a Ph.D. in Entomology from the University of Georgia. Her dedication to understanding the intricate relationships between forests and the insect world guided both her studies and her career.

Cynthia began her professional journey with the U.S. Forest Service in Forest Entomology. When offered the opportunity to relocate to Macon, Georgia, she chose instead to accept a position with Franklin Forestry Consultants as a Consulting Forest Entomologist. No interview was necessary since she was married to the Consulting Forester.

With Carlyle, Cynthia worked preparing timber for sale through partial cutting practices that balanced utilization with conservation and recreation. Among her many accomplishments, she treasured her fifteen years of work with Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina.

Outside of her professional life, Cynthia was a woman of many gifts and joys. A published poet with an expansive private collection of unpublished works, she found beauty in both the written word and the natural world. She was also an avid collector of treasures old and new — from antiques discovered in small-town shops to unique finds gathered in forests and along beaches. Each object, like each poem, told a story and reflected her boundless curiosity.

Cynthia was also an enthusiastic sports fan, particularly of Jim Valvano’s NC State Basketball team. Having admired Coach Valvano since his days at Rutgers University, she proudly celebrated the Wolfpack’s 1983 National Championship as if it were her own victory.

On November 3, 2017, Cynthia’s path took an unexpected and difficult turn when she suffered a stroke on her way to the hospital. What followed was a long and courageous journey through challenge and change. By February 2018, she was under hospital and nursing care, steadfastly working to regain her strength and spirit. On February 7, she entered assisted living, where she spent four resilient years—including the isolating months of COVID—meeting each day with quiet grace and determination.

On March 26, 2023, Cynthia returned home, surrounded by the devoted care of her husband and the love of family and friends. In April 2024, Senior Helpers joined that circle of care, supporting her through the hospital stays and health struggles that marked her later months. Though her physical strength gradually declined, her courage never faltered. Cynthia’s final years were a testament to her dignity, perseverance, and the enduring love that surrounded her every step of the way.

Those who knew Cynthia will remember her for her gentle humor, deep intellect, and quiet passion. She recognized the intricate beauty in all things.

She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of sharing in her remarkable journey.  Cynthia is survived by her husband, Carlyle Franklin, her stepdaughters Sandra Pierce (Robert) and Martha Lucas (Ben), her grandchildren Benjamin Pierce, Brinkley Lucas and Chesley Lucas. She is also survived by her sister, Kim Corsini, and Cynthia’s two nephews, Andrew Corsini and AJ Corsini. Cynthia is preceded in death by her parents, Stephen and Stella Kislow.

A funeral service will be held on Sunday, October 26, 2025 at 3:00 P.M. at Powell Funeral Home Chapel with burial to follow in the family cemetery.