Elizabeth Anne Franzalia

Elizabeth Franzalia Obituary
Betty Brodel Franzalia passed away peacefully on March 3, 2024 at the age of 104. She was born in Detroit, Michigan on February 5, 1920 to John and Agnes Brodel. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 51 years, Joseph Franzalia; her two sisters; and her infant son, Joseph. She is survived by her daughter, Toni Davis (Buddy); son, Chuck Franzalia (Lana); grandchildren, Polly Brunson (Matt), Sonny Davis, and Danielle Staver (Matt); and her great grandchildren, Taylor Brunson, Joe Brunson, Layla Staver and Lily Staver.
When Betty was a child, the Great Depression caused her family to lose their home in Michigan. Betty and her sisters were talented performers and so the family loaded up in their trusty Ford and toured the country with the girls performing in vaudeville shows to support the family. They eventually made their way to Los Angeles, where Betty embarked on a movie career before leaving it all to marry Joe and start a family. Betty and Joe and their two children moved to Fort Walton Beach in 1963 and Betty, always an avid swimmer, enjoyed the beautiful beaches that the area had to offer. She was a devout and lifelong Catholic and prayed the rosary daily. Betty will be remembered for her beautiful singing voice and her eternal positive outlook on life. She had many friends who pre-deceased her and she was looking forward to joining them in the hereafter, along with all of her family members who left this earth before her.
Having our mom and grandma for so many years is a gift that few people get to experience. We are grateful for every single day that we had her in our lives. Keep praying for us, Mom!
A private family mass and interment is planned. Betty loved children and her favorite charity was St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. A donation in Betty's name would make her so happy!