Tanya R. Franklin

Tanya R. Franklin, 74, of Rockford, passed away Friday, January 31, 2020.

Tanya was born in Rockford on December 1, 1945, daughter of Raymond and Anita (Gable) Stephenson. She graduated from West High School, Class of 1963. Tanya married George E. Franklin on September 16, 1970 at Grace United Methodist Church in Rockford. She was a longtime member and very involved at Aldersgate United Methodist Church. Tanya volunteered much of her time to the Rockford Park District, Contact Crisis Center and Red Cross Homeless Shelter. She enjoyed crafts such as crocheting and sewing, playing cards and cooking for her family. Most of all, Tanya loved spending time with her dear grandchildren.

Those left to honor Tanya’s memory include her loving husband of 49 years, George E. Franklin; children, Wes Franklin, Earl (Stacy) Gable, Pamela Stapleton and Angela (Steve) Scheidig; grandchildren, Jessica, Joseph, William, Mitchell, BobbieAnn, Jacob, Huntar, Brett, Shon, Holden, Haiden, Samantha, Jillian and Thomas; great-grandchildren, Jane and Aria; brother, Lincoln Stephenson and numerous nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her parents, daughter, Lisa Maurici; siblings, Alice Sonja Conti and John Conti.

Visitation will be from 3:00 – 7:00 p.m. Friday, February 7, 2020 at Aldersgate United Methodist Church, 4055 N. Rockton Ave. Rockford, IL 61103. A Funeral Service will be at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 8, 2020 also in the church. Cremation rites will be accorded. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Lockwood Park, 5201 Safford Rd. Rockford, IL 61101.

Arrangements entrusted to Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 1860 S. Mulford Rd. Rockford, IL 61108. Share online memories and condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com