Dorothy Jane (Valerio) Franzen, 88, of Dadeville, Ala., died peacefully at her home on Oct. 8, 2022.
Dorothy Jane (Valerio) Franzen was born on July 22, 1934 in Chicago, Ill., to Donald and Jewel Valerio. Dorothy married Harold George Franzen on May 23, 1953. They were married for 68 wonderful years. Harold preceded her in death on January 27, 2022. They had five beautiful daughters and she stayed home to raise each of them. She was a devoted wife and mother. She was a great cook and loved cooking for anyone. If you ever left her house hungry, it was your own fault. She always feeds anyone and always cooks for an army. She never got her driver’s license, but could definitely tell you how to drive.
In her younger years, Dorothy loved bowling and was in a bowling league. She also loved playing cards. She was a member of a bridge club. She volunteered for many years at her children’s elementary school in the library.
Dorothy also did Braille transcription. She transcribed regular books into Braille books. She loved her grandchildren more than anything. She loved playing games with them, especially Michigan Rummy!
Dorothy was a member of Sardis United Methodist Church in Dadeville. She loved her church family and pastor, Stephen King.
Dorothy is survived by her four daughters, Pamela Franzen of St. Louis, Cheryl Franzen Wisdom of Wright City, Renee Franzen Lowe and husband Paul of Dadeville, Ala., and Cherie Franzen Stevens and husband Mark of Montgomery City; grandchildren, Sara Jones, Danielle Jones (Wayne Black), Christopher Jones (Susan), Alexius Lowe, Ashley Atkins (Brian), Nichole Borgers (Jeff), Samantha Thalhammer (Thomas), Shauna Curless (Nathan) and Luke Stevens (Abby); great-grandchildren, Daysia Jones, Jaden Black, Oliver Hyde, Anna Grace and Xander Atkins, Meggan Jones, Amalia Curless, Jake Borgers and Walker Stevens; sister, Judy Valerio Pociecha; sisters-in-law, Charlotte Tehako, Linda Jakes and Lindy Franzen; and many nieces and nephews.
Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Harold; daughter, Catherine Ann Franzen; sons-in-law, Richard Jones and James Wisdom; and grandson, Tyler Stevens
She was deeply loved by her family and friends. We were all blessed for having known her. We will miss our mother, grandmother, aunt, sister and friend.
A celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. on Nov. 26 at Sardis United Methodist Church in Dadeville, Ala. Brother Stephen King will officiate. Memorial contributions can be made to Sardis United Methodist Church.
