07/11/2026
It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our beloved teammate, George Franklin.
George was a longtime volunteer with our OPO, serving the Maryland, Washington, D.C., and Northern Virginia community. He was a dedicated member of Team Nation's Capital before joining Team Maryland in 2007, where he became an inspiration to teammates and the transplant community alike.
George was also the co-founder of the Quarter Century Club, helping to create a community that celebrates and supports transplant recipients who have reached 25 years or more with their lifesaving gifts.
In 2022, George was honored with the Transplant Games of America (TGA) Athlete of the Year Award in recognition of his remarkable spirit and dedication.
George was the longest-living Black American with a single kidney transplant. Last year, he celebrated an extraordinary milestone—50 years with his transplanted kidney—a powerful testament to the life-changing gift of organ donation and the lasting impact of transplantation.
George's legacy of hope, perseverance, and service will continue to inspire all who knew him.
Please keep George's family, his Team Maryland family, and his Transplant community family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.