Daren Levon Franklin was born July 6, 1961 to the late Mrs. Annie Baxter and Mr. Anderson Minatee. Daren was raised in Clewiston, Florida where he was educated in the Hendry County School District. Daren graduated from Clewiston High School in 1979.

Daren recognized the need for a Savior, he was converted and was a faithful member of Grace Fellowship Worship Center in Belle Glade, Florida under the pastoralship of Pastor Kenny Berry.

Professionally, Daren was employed by Glades Correctional Institute for 25 years as a Correctional Officer. He retired in 2012.

In his spare time, Daren enjoyed traveling, spending intimate time with his Lord and Savior. He loved spending time and creating memories with his daughters.

On Friday February 12, 2021 God summoned his angels to Palms West Hospital for a powerful man of God. Daren had finished his course. He had fought a good fight, for the Lord desired to have him right by his side. Now he is dancing in the streets of gold with loved ones who preceded him in death to include his parents and his sisters: Jacquline Thompson, Miriam & Verlinda Baxter.

Daren leaves his most precious memories with his daughters: Taylor & Tiara Franklin; stepchildren: Jenese, Oshane, Amora Cuveilje, Gabriella Walter; his stepfather: James E. Baxter Sr.; (4) sisters: Yolanda Arnold (Adrian), Audrey Baxter, Sheema Butler, Yiandria Curry; (8) brothers: Vernon Franklin (Rebecca), Morris James Sr. (Kimberly), Maurice James Sr. (Annie), Roy James, Michael Johnson Sr.  (Cherril), James Baxter Jr., Tony Baxter, Michael Baxter Sr. and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.