Latonia Franklin

It is with a heavy heart that we inform you of the passing of Ms. LaTonia Franklin.

Ms. Franklin passed away on Tuesday, December 23, 2025.

The family will receive friends at: 3408 Carl Brewer Drive, McBee, SC.

Arrangements will be announced by Davis Funeral Home, LLC of Hartsville, SC.

“Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me: thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.” 

                                                                                           Psalm 23:4 

Our beloved Latonia (Tonia) Franklin, lovingly known as “Shorty Phat”, peacefully passed away on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, surrounded by her loved ones as she departed. Latonia Evette Franklin was born on April 16, 1979, in Darlington County. She was the loving daughter of Adrienne Franklin and Leroy Wheeler.

 Tonia was educated at Hartsville High School. She formed friendships and was a joy to be around by all who knew her. 

Tonia lived a life rooted in love, strength, and unwavering devotion to her family and God. Tonia was a devoted mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, and friend. She was known as the manager of our family. Her home was always a place of comfort and love. You could always go to Tonia’s house and find good food to eat. 

Tonia’s favorite pastimes included: grocery shopping, cooking, getting her hair done, spending time with her grandson, and attending church. 

Tonia was baptized in the name of the Lord, Jesus Christ as a child at Mt. Calvary AME Church in Hartsville SC. In 2015, Tonia joined Angels All Around Ministries. She became a devoted servant to God and within her church. For at least ten years, Tonia was a dedicated and faithful member.

 Throughout her life, Tonia has held many different positions and job titles. Her last assignment was with SEE (Southeast Express) as a forklift operator. She enjoyed working at SEE. Tonia was preceded in death by: her aunt, Stacey Franklin; uncle, Andy Franklin; and cousin, Erica “Nikki” Franklin. 

She leaves to cherish her memory: her mother, Adrienne Franklin of McBee, SC; father, Leroy (Pamela) Wheeler of Hartsville, SC; grandmother, Christine Franklin; son, Steven Johnson; daughters, My’Esha Sands of Florence, SC and Ni’Jaya Dickey of Columbia, SC; grandson, Nasir Skinner (Grandma Boy) of Columbia, SC; a bonus-son, Dasir Skinner of Columbia, SC; siblings: Jalisa Franklin, Jessica Franklin and Yasmine Wheeler; uncles: Carey Lee Franklin, Charles Franklin, William Franklin and Walter Wilds; aunts: Vanessa Mitchell, Mary Franklin and Lucille Wheeler; special friends whom she cared for and loved dearly: Kristina Gattison, Princess Boone and Taji Scott; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members and dear friends. 

We will always carry Latonia Evette Franklin (Tonia) affectionately called “Shorty Phat” in our hearts.