Connie Jo Franklin
Connie Jo Franklin, a loving and devoted mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 13, 2025, at the age of 82. Known for her warm hugs, caring heart, and unwavering honesty, Connie lived a life full of love, laughter, and cherished memories. Born on January 12, 1943, to Fred and Leota (Spaulding) Goff, Connie grew up in Dimondale, Michigan, where she graduated from Dimondale High School in 1961. She raised two children, Melony and Michael. She reconnected with the love of her life, Jerry Franklin and he was her third husband.
Connie took pride in her work as a laboratory attendant for the State of Michigan until her well-earned retirement. She had a gift for keeping a tidy home, embracing what she fondly called “organized chaos.” Never one to leave things unsaid, Connie had a straightforward and loving nature, always sharing exactly what was on her mind.
Among her greatest joys in life was traveling with Jerry in their RV, with Gulf Shores, Alabama, being one of their favorite destinations. Closer to home, she delighted in riding her bicycle around Dimondale and later exploring the scenic trails of Houghton Lake, where they spent their golden years. But her absolute favorite place to be was on their pontoon boat, floating peacefully on Houghton Lake, soaking in the beauty of nature.
In her later years, Connie found deep fulfillment in helping raise her grandchildren, treasuring every moment spent with them. Fiercely independent, she devised clever ways to navigate life’s challenges, including her beloved system of post-it notes that helped her stay organized and self-sufficient.
Connie is survived by her daughter, Melony Ryan-Fronckel; her son, Michael (Melody) Sich; and her beloved grandchildren, Roxanna and Ryan Fronckel. She is also survived by her brother, Frederick (Sue) Goff. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jerry, in 2021; as well as her parents, Fred and Leota.
Connie’s warmth, wisdom, and love will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her legacy of kindness, strength, and straight-talking honesty will live on in the hearts of those she touched.
A celebration of Connie’s life will be held this summer, where family and friends will gather to share memories and honor the incredible woman she was. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you take a moment to hug a loved one in Connie’s memory, because if there was one thing she believed in, it was the power of a good hug. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home.