FRANCO, Evelyn

Evelyn Franco, 90, beloved wife, mother and grandmother passed on peacefully at her home in Globe, Arizona on December 20, 2003. She was born in Miami, Arizona in 1913 to Lucille and William Overdeer. After the early death of her mother, she was raised by her loving Aunt Myrtle Aulman in the Miami area where she also attended school. She married Lorenzo (Laurie) Franco in 1926 and they were devoted to each other for 52 years. She was a partner/buyer in the family business; Franco's Home Furniture store on Sullivan Street in Miami. As a dedicated pillar of the community, Evelyn served in many roles. She was a representative for the National Democratic Party and a member of the Business & Professional Women's Club of Gila County. She supported the American Heart & Cancer Associations, held many offices in the Catholic Altar Society, Book and Garden Clubs, Miami Bowling League and many others throughout the years. She was a master bridge player, avid gardener, tournament bowler and accomplished dress designer and seamstress. She won several local culinary awards. She loved the big band sounds and danced beautifully. In their later years, Evelyn and Lorry traveled across the U.S., Canada, Mexico and Europe. She was known for her wonderful handwritten journals detailing these adventures. She was preceded in death by her husband Lorry and her older brother Kenneth Overdeer. She is survived by three loving daughters and their husbands - Florene and Joaquin Sanchez of Phoenix, Celia and Jesse Stokes of Casa Grande and Lorri and Hal Jordan of Scottsdale. There are 12 grandchildren - Steve, Stanley and Allan Sanchez, Douglas and Paul Ackerman, Stacey Holmes, Piper Jameson, Troy Weldon, Dana Ellsworth, Kim Jackson, Audra Smith and Joy Carlson, plus 15 great grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren. Celebrating 90 years of life to its fullest, she leaves of legacy of love, frugality, determination, cherished memories and a spunky spirit. We miss her already. The family wishes to thank Josie Ledezma, Sherri Cutter and Dr. Salazar who provided excellent assistance in her care. Memorial services were January 10, 2004 at Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Church in Miami with internment immediately following at the Pinal Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the American Heart Association. East Valley Tribune 12/28/2003.