Obituary of Franklin Roosevelt Cecil

September 23, 1944

August 29, 2023

Franklin Cecil of Goodstoney First Nation passed away peacefully at Rockyview Hospital with family by his side on August 29, 2023, at the age of 79 years.

Franklin was an avid athlete in our community and promoted seasonal sports to youth and adults in our Nakoda Community. Franklin and his brothers were the first members to be recognized as registered umpires and volunteered their time to creating sports for our community. Franklin loved sports. He created the first girl's fastball team in the 80's. The fastball team was called "Cowgirls" and later renamed the team to "Warriorettes." The team won many championships in and around Alberta. It was Franklin's highlight of his days creating a girl's fastball team. Franklin and his brothers had a men’s fastball team named the "Cardinals" who also competed in many tournaments. The team was based on his brothers Milan, Irby, and their nephews. Franklin's family was known for their sportsmanship in the community. Franklin and his brothers were involved in hockey. They were part of the hockey team named "Eagles." The whole family travelled together to make memories and to cheer on the team. Franklin was a horseman back in the day when the family travelled with horses. Franklin participated in the sport of Rodeo as well and rode saddle bronc.

Franklin attained his education at Morley residential school and day school.

Franklin leaves behind his son to mourn Tercyak, Chad; his daughters Raquel, Tessilyn and Jeralyn; his precious grandchildren Mitchel Jr. (Marlee), Majel, Tanner (Rainessa), D'Angelo (Jaelyn), Silas (Tamsyn), Chestine, Paris-Sky, Roesha (Guy), Aidian, Jayda, Cage, Michaelis, Elais, Junior, Bracy, Jael, Joerelle, Kyrelle, Tyrese, Teshika, Sonny and Alvaysh; great-grandchildren Trace, Dumaais, Collin, Keira, Raniyah, Ivyna, Skyla, Tanner Jr., Taylan, Cervauntes, Guy Jr., Kaston, and Kessel.

Franklin also leaves behind his brothers, Johnny Wesley, Bruce Wesley-Beaver (Florence), Marvin Bigstony (Jody); sisters Nelda Bigstony, Sylvia Bigstony (Gordon), and traditionally adopted sister Yolanda Bigstony (Floyd).

Franklin was predeceased by his parents Gordon and Eveline; siblings David (Joan), Irby (Marilyn), Clarence (Margaret), Milan and Marvalene, and a sister, Sons Roosevelt and Arvid.

Franklin leaves behind numerous nephews, nieces, and cousins, of Morley, Eden Valley and Bighorn. We apologize if we missed anybody.

 The Family would like to thank the staff at Rockyview Hospital and the Stoney homecare staff for caring for Frank whom we dearly love.

Wake Services will be held at the residence of Franklin Cecil (Morley, AB) on Monday, September 4, 2023.  Funeral Services will be held at Morley United Church (Morley, AB) on Tuesday, September 5, 2023, at 12:00PM.  Graveside Service to follow. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed at www.MHFH.com.

In living memory of Franklin Cecil, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Crowfoot, 82 Crowfoot Circle NW, Calgary, AB T3G 2T3, Telephone: 403-241-0044.