Kathleen Franklin

Kathleen Franklin, a beacon of love and generosity, passed away peacefully on October 6, 2025, at the age of 70 in Seymour, IN. Born on June 21, 1955, in Corydon, IN, Kathleen's life was a testament to the power of kindness and the strength of family bonds.

Kathy's journey began as the cherished daughter of Walter Hoehn and his beloved wife Pauline Feller Hoehn, and she grew up surrounded by a large and loving family. She was a sister to Walter Edward "Eddie" (Rowena) Hoehn Jr., William (Sonia) Hoehn, Shirley (Floyd) Beanblossom, Jeanne (James) Green, Nancy (Forrest) Timberlake, Steve (Margie) Hoehn, Mark (Denise) Hoehn, Joseph (Carol) Hoehn, Judy (Mark) Papoy, and John (Sherry) Hoehn. She was preceded in death by her sister, Patricia Mersmann. The ties she shared with her siblings were deep and enduring, filled with cherished memories and shared experiences that shaped her into the remarkable woman she became.

Kathy married Garry Franklin on May 1, 2004 in Seymour, and together they built a life filled with joy and companionship. She is survived by her three sons, Daniel Ward of Fort Wayne, IN, Adam (Stacy) Ward of Seymour, IN, Jeremy (Mandy) Ward of Basel, Switzerland, and her stepdaughter, Jennifer (Patrick) Collisi of Coatesville, IN. Kathy's role as a mother was one she embraced with every fiber of her being, guiding her children with a gentle hand and an open heart.

The legacy Kathy, better known as Nana, leaves behind is also vibrantly reflected in the lives of her eleven grandchildren, Lyla, Sawyer, Christian (Kaiya), Allison, Lucas, Ethan, Hope, Trevor, Trey, Linkin, and Sophie; and a great granddaughter, Noa. Each grandchild was a precious gift to Kathy, and she cherished every moment spent with them, instilling values of love and kindness that will continue to resonate through generations. She loved the quote "Nanas make wishes come true."

She was a longtime member of St. Ambrose Catholic Church in Seymour. Her commitment to her church community was unwavering, and she served with a spirit of grace that inspired all who knew her. Kathy's faith was not just a belief but a way of life that she demonstrated through her actions and the love she extended to others.

Kathy was employed by the Family Medical Center for over forty years. The center named a large conference center after her for her dedication to the company, naming it Franklin Hall in the summer of 2025.

Those who knew Kathy remember her as someone whose kindness was steady and effortless. She had a way of making people feel seen and cared for, often through simple gestures that spoke volumes. Her presence brought a sense of calm and comfort to those around her. She gave of herself selflessly, always putting the needs of others before her own. Kathy gave her time and attention freely, not out of obligation, but because she truly cared. She didn't just talk about love and generosity - she lived them every day.

Visitation will take place from 5-8 PM, Sunday, October 12, at Voss & Sons Funeral and Cremation Services, 316 N. Chestnut Street, Seymour, and from 10-11AM, Monday, October 13, at St. Ambrose Catholic Church, Seymour.

A funeral mass will follow at 11AM, Monday, October 13 at St. Ambrose Catholic Church.

Memorial contributions are suggested to St. Ambrose Catholic Church, 325 S. Chestnut Street, Seymour, IN 47274. Online condolences may be shared with the Franklin family at www.vossfuneralservice.com.