Baton Rouge Woman Remembered for Faith & Service

Kendra Thomas Franklin dedicated her life to supporting families and childcare providers in Louisiana

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

Kendra Thomas Franklin, a long-time advocate for families and childcare providers in Louisiana, passed away peacefully on February 11, 2026 at the age of 55. Franklin dedicated her life to service and faith, working with Volunteers of America to provide training and support to childcare providers across the region. She was also an active member of her church community, serving as a deaconess at Star Hill Baptist Church.

Why it matters

Franklin's passing represents a loss to the broader Louisiana community, as her work with Volunteers of America and her dedication to supporting families and childcare providers left a lasting legacy of service and compassion. Her commitment to faith and community service underscores the vital role that dedicated professionals play in strengthening families and childcare systems.

The details

Franklin was born on July 7, 1970 and accepted Christ at an early age at Greater New Guide Baptist Church. She later served as a deaconess at Star Hill Baptist Church, demonstrating a lifelong commitment to her religious community. Professionally, Franklin worked with Volunteers of America, where she focused on training and providing support to childcare providers across the region. This work underscored her dedication to ensuring quality care for children and strengthening families.

  • Franklin passed away on February 11, 2026 at the age of 55.
  • Franklin was born on July 7, 1970.

The players

Kendra Thomas Franklin

A long-time advocate for families and childcare providers in Louisiana who passed away on February 11, 2026 at the age of 55.

Timothy Franklin

Kendra Thomas Franklin's husband.

Marquet (Lawrence Dean) and Khyliah

Kendra Thomas Franklin's children.

Quentin, Je'kyra, Trinity, and Timia

Kendra Thomas Franklin's bonus children.

Margie Hatfield

Kendra Thomas Franklin's mother.

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The takeaway

Kendra Thomas Franklin's life and work exemplified the vital role that dedicated professionals play in strengthening families and childcare systems. Her commitment to faith, service, and supporting vulnerable communities left a lasting impact on Louisiana, and her passing is a loss felt by all who knew her and benefited from her tireless efforts.