Carol Franklin

On Saturday, December 28, 2024, Carol Franklin, a devoted mother of six children, passed away peacefully at the age of 90, just one day shy of her 91st birthday.

Carol was born on December 29, 1933, in Pueblo, Colorado, to William and Ella Taylor. Growing up, she developed a strong sense of family and a love for her community, traits she carried throughout her life. On December 10, 1951, Carol married the love of her life, Ronald E. Franklin, embarking on a partnership that lasted over 50 years until Ron’s passing on December 3, 2003. Together, Carol and Ron built a warm and welcoming home, raising six children who were the pride and joy of their lives.

Carol is lovingly remembered by her children: Mark Franklin (Shelly), Kristy Sivley (Craig), Ron Franklin (Barb), Kerri Ramirez (Melito), and Kay Cosgrove (Jack). Her eldest daughter, Kathy Potter (Michael), preceded her in death. Carol is survived by her sister, Kay Wilson; 25 grandchildren and 50 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews who cherished her deeply and will continue to carry forward her legacy of love, resilience, and kindness.

Carol is preceded in death by her beloved husband Ron; her brothers, Tom Bowling and Sherman Taylor; her daughter, Kathy Potter; her grandsons, Craig Potter, Nick Henzel, and Jonah Potter; and her great-grandchildren, Hannah Potter. Austin Bissonnett and Nicolai Schurman.  Despite the pain of these losses, Carol found strength in her family, and her ability to find joy in life’s simple pleasures.

As a homemaker, Carol dedicated her life to creating a nurturing and loving environment for her children. She was known for her open-door policy, welcoming not just her own children but their friends as well, making everyone feel at home with her warmth and generosity. Carol had a knack for finding treasures in unexpected places, often spending her weekends exploring local yard sales and thrift stores. Her joy in these simple outings was contagious, and she loved sharing her unique finds with her family and friends.

Carol’s love and dedication extended beyond her immediate family. She was a source of wisdom, comfort, and encouragement to all who knew her. Her kindness, generosity of spirit, and ability to find beauty in the ordinary left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to cross her path

A celebration of Carol’s life will take place at 10:00 AM on Saturday, January 11, 2025, at the Chapel of Herring Funeral Home. Family and friends are invited to gather in her honor, sharing stories, laughter, and cherished memories from her remarkable 90 years. Carol’s legacy lives on in the hearts of those who loved her, and she will be deeply missed but forever remembered.

Memorial contributions may be made to Providence St. Mary Regional Cancer Center through the Herring Groseclose Funeral Home, 315 W Alder St, Walla Walla WA 99362. Friends and family are invited to sign the online guestbook at www.herringgroseclose.com.