Jennie Franklin

Jennie Marie Franklin (Mattie/Matteo), 86, passed away peacefully on March 4, 2026, in Colorado Springs, Colorado, at the home of her niece, Judy “Bunny” Mattie-Brackel, surrounded by the love of her family.

She was born on January 18, 1940, in a small house west of Trinidad, Colorado, in the coal mining town of Segundo. Jennie entered the world at home, where her mother gave birth to her in the family house that stood near what is now Ringo’s Trading Post. That little house remained in the family for many years before the area eventually changed, but it was the place where her story began. Growing up west of Trinidad, she was proud of her roots and often reminded people that she was a coal miner’s daughter, something she carried with pride throughout her life and loved sharing with her family.

Jennie experienced great loss early in life when her mother passed away giving birth to her twin brothers. She was lovingly raised by her grandmother, Guiditta Gasperetti, of whom she was very proud. Through her grandmother’s care, Jennie embraced her Italian heritage, traditions, and family values, something she carried with pride throughout her life.

A prodigious student, Jennie graduated from high school at just 16 years old after skipping multiple grades. Her academic achievements were matched by her professional success. Immediately after graduation, she began her career at Trinidad National Bank. Through her hard work, intelligence, and determination, Jennie rose through the ranks to become Vice President of the bank, a role she held with pride and professionalism as a woman. Her career was a testament to her strong work ethic and commitment to excellence.

Jennie’s life was defined by her deep love for her family. She is survived by her niece, Judy “Bunny” Mattie-Brackel, and her husband, Bradley Brackel, who lovingly cared for Jennie over the past nine years. Jennie was deeply loved and surrounded by her grandnieces Siteris Mattie-Stanley and Caralissa Stanley and her partner, Courtney Currington, as well as her nephew, Anthony Mattie, whom she cherished deeply and Felicia Jones, who was like a daughter to her. Jennie is also survived by her half-brothers. She was preceded in death by her grandparents and parents, her beloved husband, Tony Franklin, her sisters, Frances Mattie and Shirley Dussart, and her twin brothers, Albert and Arthur.

Jennie’s vibrant personality shone brightly in all aspects of her life. She was a devoted supporter of La Burla Bee, an entertainment venue owned by her niece, and her enthusiasm was unmatched. Jennie greeted every guest with warmth, cheered on every show with pride, and spread her infectious energy wherever she went, making everyone feel like they had met a local celebrity, Nana style, as she fondly called it. Whenever her niece Bunny took the stage, Jennie would shush the other performers so she could watch her niece’s performance up close, never missing a single moment.

Raised in the Catholic faith, Jennie cherished the traditions and values instilled in her during childhood. She fondly recalled attending church with her family and participating in community events that shaped her kindness and compassion. Her faith remained a guiding force throughout her life.
Jennie will be remembered for her kind heart and selflessness. She had an extraordinary ability to make everyone feel welcome and cared for, always putting others before herself. Her warmth, wisdom, and unwavering support touched countless lives. She loved deeply and celebrated the successes of those around her with genuine joy.

A lifelong football enthusiast, Jennie was an avid Denver Broncos fan (loving the Mighty Miners as well), and one of her fondest memories was attending a game with her niece and her husband—a day she often recalled with joy. She also loved traveling with her family, especially on trips to Walt Disney World. In her young days, Jennie enjoyed going to weekend dances with her relatives, swinging to classic country music by artists like Loretta Lynn, Johnny Cash, Conway Twitty, and Tanya Tucker. Those moments of music, laughter, and family stayed close to her heart throughout her life.

In honor of Jennie and her favorite color, those attending her services are encouraged to wear yellow.

Jennie’s legacy of love, kindness, and compassion will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her. A viewing will be held on March 17, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at The Springs Funeral Services – Platte, 3115 East Platte Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80909. This will be followed by a Celebration of Life from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM, and afterwards, a reception will be held at La Burla Bee, 110 N. Nevada Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80903, to share memories and honor her remarkable life.

A viewing will be held on March 18, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Comi Funeral Home, 1804 E Main St., Trinidad, Colorado. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Comi Funeral Home on March 19, 2026, at 10:00 AM, with burial to follow. Serving as pallbearers will be Bradley Brackel, Anthony Mattie, Caralissa Stanley, Courtney Currington, Siteris Mattie-Stanley, and Kyle Decker. A reception will follow the burial at 12:00 PM, with the location to be shared soon.