Franklin – G. Elliott Cobb, Jr., a devoted husband, brother, father, grandfather, and respected attorney, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on August 28, 2025. A proud native of Franklin, Virginia, Elliott leaves behind a legacy of service, integrity, and enduring love for family and community.

Born on July 11, 1939, to Thelma Whitley Cobb and Gardner Elliott Cobb, Elliott was raised in Franklin and graduated from Franklin High School in 1956. He continued his education at the University of Virginia, earning a B.S. in Commerce in 1960. Following graduation, Elliott served his country with honor as a Corporal in the United States Marine Corps.

He returned to the University of Virginia to pursue a law degree, graduating in 1966, and soon began a distinguished legal career. In 1967, he joined Union Camp Corporation, where he rose to the position of vice president, general counsel, and secretary, serving the company until 1978.

That same year, after returning to his beloved Franklin, Elliott became a partner in private practice. Known for his keen legal mind, professionalism, and unwavering dedication to his clients, he approached the law with a deep sense of fairness and service. Reflecting his influence and leadership, he also served the City of Franklin as councilman, vice mayor, and mayor from 1980–1988. His steady guidance helped his hometown navigate years of growth and change. He retired in 2018 after four decades of service to the Franklin community.

A devoted alumnus of the University of Virginia, Elliott carried with him a lifelong love for his alma mater. He cherished the values instilled during his time on Grounds and remained an enthusiastic supporter of the Cavaliers throughout his life. As a proud season ticket holder, he rarely missed a home football game. He especially looked forward to family tailgates—gatherings filled with laughter, fried chicken and orange and blue spirit. These traditions brought together his love of UVa and his devotion to family, creating lasting memories his children and grandchildren continue to cherish.

Elliott is remembered not only for his professional accomplishments but also for his steadfast love and commitment to his family. He is survived by his beloved wife, Betty Minor Cobb (Betsy); his children, Polly Hopkins (Kevin), Susan Burgess, and Gardner E. Cobb III (Ann); his grandchildren, Rachel Kim (Daniel), Parker Hopkins, Whitney Schmitt (Greg), Wesley Burgess, Mason Cobb, and Sarah Cobb; his great-grandchildren, Colston Schmitt and Ellie Schmitt. He is also survived by his brother, William P. Cobb (Vicki) and his sister, Ann C. Brown; and many extended family members and friends whose lives he touched with warmth and wisdom.

Elliott Cobb's life was one of quiet excellence, marked by integrity, devotion, and love. His presence will be deeply missed, but his example lives on in the family he cherished, the community he served, and the countless lives he influenced. The Cobb family is enormously grateful to The Village at Woods Edge community, Gentiva Hospice, and his private caregivers for their kindness and support.

A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at 3:30 p.m. at Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Franklin, Virginia, with a reception immediately following at The Village at Woods Edge, Franklin, Virginia. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to The Village at Woods Edge.

The funeral service will be livestreamed on Wright Funeral Home's Facebook page.

www.wrightfuneralhome.org