Remembering beloved physician and educator Robert Henry Franch, MD

It is with a heavy heart that the Department of Medicine shares the loss of beloved physician and educator Robert “Bob” Henry Franch, MD. Bob passed away peacefully in hospice care November 10 with two of his daughters at his side. He was 93.

Bob made a significant contribution to the Department of Medicine, previously serving as head of the cardiac catheterization lab in Emory’s Woodruff Memorial Research Building. It was one of the first cardiac catheterization labs in Georgia. Bob was one of the early leaders in the field of congenital heart disease and his work laid the foundation for Emory’s Adult Congenital Heart Disease Center. He was known as a thoughtful and compassionate doctor and a highly respected teacher.

Bob’s family would like to thank those who took care of him during his recent hospitalization and over the years. They shared that Bob held his colleagues in high regard and was especially proud of his trainees. He expressed that in lieu of flowers, donations be made in support of The Franch Learning Center in the Division of Cardiology at Emory University. Please make checks payable to “Emory” and mail to:

Emory University
c/o Emory Advancement
1762 Clifton Road NE, Ste 1400
Atlanta, GA 30322

The department sends thoughts and prayers to Bob’s family during this difficult time.

Click here to give to the Division of Cardiology.