Lovingly known as "Ty." A son, a brother, a grandson, an uncle, a loyal friend, and a gifted athlete whose life reflected determination, compassion, and purpose.
Tykeem D'Majh Franklin, lovingly known as "Ty," was born on July 18, 1996, in Gadsden, Alabama. He was a son, a brother, a grandson, an uncle, a loyal friend, a gifted athlete, and a young man whose life reflected determination, compassion, and purpose. Although his journey was tragically cut short on July 16, 2020, just two days before his 24th birthday, his impact continues to inspire lives far beyond the years he was given.
From an early age, Ty possessed a quiet confidence that drew people to him. His smile was genuine, his heart was generous, and his character spoke louder than words. He had an incredible ability to encourage others, build lasting friendships, and make people feel valued. Whether on the basketball court, in the classroom, or within his community, Ty led with humility, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to giving his best.
Ty attended Madison City Schools and graduated from James Clemens High School in 2014 with an Advanced Academic Diploma. Basketball was one of his greatest passions, but to Ty, the game represented much more than competition. It taught discipline, resilience, teamwork, and perseverance — qualities that shaped the man he became. Through years of AAU and high school basketball, he helped lead his teams to multiple championships while earning the admiration of teammates, coaches, and opponents alike through his leadership, sportsmanship, and relentless work ethic.
Driven by a desire to build a meaningful future, Ty continued his education at Tennessee State University, where he pursued a degree in Electrical Engineering and Supply Chain Management. He believed education opened doors to opportunity and was committed to creating a life that would positively impact both his family and his community. His dreams extended beyond personal success — he wanted to uplift others and leave the world better than he found it.
On July 16, 2020, Ty's life was taken by an act of gun violence. His passing left an immeasurable void in the hearts of those who loved him, but it also ignited a mission that would ensure his name and purpose would never be forgotten.
Ty's Future Stars Foundation was established to honor Ty's life by investing in the potential of young people. The foundation provides scholarships, supports youth development, promotes education, encourages athletic excellence, and advocates for communities free from gun violence. Every scholarship awarded, every young person mentored, and every community event hosted reflects the values Ty embodied throughout his life: hope, perseverance, kindness, leadership, and service.
Ty's legacy reminds us that greatness is not defined by how long we live, but by how deeply we love, how faithfully we serve, and how many lives we inspire along the way. His story is one of resilience, promise, and purpose — a testament that even in tragedy, hope can rise and lives can be transformed.
Today, Ty's spirit lives on through every student who dares to dream, every family strengthened through community support, and every opportunity created in his honor. His legacy continues to challenge us to choose compassion over violence, purpose over fear, and service over self.
Graduated James Clemens High School in 2014 with an Advanced Academic Diploma, then studied Electrical Engineering and Supply Chain Management at Tennessee State University.
A lifelong passion. Through years of AAU and high school basketball he helped lead his teams to multiple championships, admired for his leadership and work ethic.
Quiet confidence, a genuine smile, and a generous heart. He encouraged others, built lasting friendships, and made people feel valued.
Your gift funds scholarships and mentorship for young athletes chasing the same dreams Ty chased.