Josiane "Jo" Leone Franklin, 88

Josiane "Jo" Leone Franklin, ageless, went to her heavenly home surrounded by her family on April 11, 2013.

She was born in Culver, IN, the beloved only child of the late Bert and Marcelle Alumbaugh. Jo is survived by her loving husband, Thomas Franklin, son and daughter-in-law Gary and Vonette Franklin, daughter and son-in-law Denise and Donald LaRocco, granddaughter and grandson-in-law Jill and Chris Laracuenta, granddaughter, Lisa Eggert and great grandchildren Brooke Laracuenta, Luke Laracuenta and Cole Eggert. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews and friends.

Jo had an unwavering trust and faith in God and is now safely in His arms. She was deeply compassionate and charitable in service to others. She was an inveterate spreader of cheer and comfort and was generous of heart and spirit. She was an adventurous world traveler and elegant keeper of the home fires. She had an insatiable curiosity about life and people and had a delightful sense of humor. She was the vivacious girl that Tom vowed he would marry the moment their eyes met. He would take her by the hand and twirl her onto the dance floor when music filled her soul.

Jo was a loving wife and mother and adored her family with her every breath 'til the last. She embraced her friends with loyalty and inspired all who knew her to live each day in celebration of life. She was the embodiment of joie de vivre and was loved by many. Au revoir, Jo!

Funeral Information

Visitation Monday, April 15, 10 -10:45 AM at Holy Family Catholic Church, 2515 W. Palatine Road, Inverness. Funeral Mass will follow at 11 AM. Interment will be held privately at St. Michael the Archangel Cemetery.

Donations Information

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to Midwest Palliative and Hospice Care Center, 2050 Claire Court, Glenview, IL 60025.

Information provided by Smith-Corcoran Funeral Home.