Community Leader Lamarr Franklin Dies at 80, Legacy Lives On in $16M Housing Development

Lamarr Franklin's decades of work revitalizing Milwaukee's north side and mentoring young leaders are honored with an affordable housing complex bearing his name.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Lamarr Franklin, a longtime community leader in Milwaukee, passed away at the age of 80. Franklin was a driving force behind numerous initiatives to revitalize the city's north side, including launching the MLK Economic Development Corporation and serving on the board of Northcott Neighborhood House for 40 years. He also organized the city's first Garfield Festival. Franklin's legacy lives on through the Lamarr Franklin Lofts, a $16 million affordable housing complex named in his honor.

Why it matters

Franklin's decades of work to create opportunities and strengthen communities in Milwaukee's north side have left a lasting impact. The housing development named after him serves as a tribute to his life's work and the important role community leaders can play in driving positive change.

The details

The Lamarr Franklin Lofts, a $16 million affordable housing complex, sits at the corner of King Drive and Dr. William Finlayson Street in Milwaukee. Franklin helped launch the MLK Economic Development Corporation and spent 40 years on the board of Northcott Neighborhood House, supporting programs that provide vital resources to families. He also organized the city's first Garfield Festival, bringing neighbors together in celebration of community and culture.

  • Lamarr Franklin passed away on Wednesday, February 12, 2026 at the age of 80.
  • In 1973, Franklin founded the Milwaukee chapter of the Black Achievers Program, mentoring generations of young leaders.

The players

Lamarr Franklin

A longtime community leader in Milwaukee who dedicated his life to strengthening the city's north side through various initiatives and mentorship programs.

Mac Weddle

Lamarr Franklin's best friend of more than 70 years, who was with him when he passed away.

Lester Julien

Lamarr Franklin's nephew, who wants his uncle to be remembered for his hard work and commitment to the community.

Frank Cumberbatch

The Vice President of Engagement at Bader Philanthropies, who described Franklin as a 'champion' and said his passing has left a 'major void' in the community.

MLK Economic Development Corporation

An organization focused on revitalizing the historic King Drive corridor, which Franklin helped launch.

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What they’re saying

“Lamarr Franklin, Mac Weddle, Ben Johnson... those are champions. And when we lose one, there's a big hole. And today on this King Drive on the north side of Milwaukee, there's a major void.”

— Frank Cumberbatch, Vice President of Engagement, Bader Philanthropies (tmj4.com)

“I want him to be remembered in the community for the hard work he did for the community. He was a pillar in the community, well-liked, well-known...so I want him to be known as person that cared about his people.”

— Lester Julien, Nephew of Lamarr Franklin (tmj4.com)

What’s next

The Lamarr Franklin Lofts, the affordable housing complex named in his honor, will continue to serve as a lasting tribute to Franklin's legacy and commitment to the community.

The takeaway

Lamarr Franklin's decades of work to revitalize Milwaukee's north side and mentor young leaders have left an indelible mark on the community. The Lamarr Franklin Lofts stand as a physical representation of his enduring impact and the power of community-driven development to create positive change.