Mary Jane Franklin

Mary Jane Franklin rejoined her loving husband Stanley on June 6, 2019 at the age of 89.   Mary Jane and her twin sister Margaret were born on April 8, 1930 to Lawrence and Beryl Abbott in Manistee, MI.  She was preceded in death by husband Stanley Paul in 1985, brothers Lawrence and Richard Abbott, brother-in -law John Bilsky, and sisters-in-law Eleanor and Doris Abbott.  Surviving are her daughter Margaret “Peg” Beryl Franklin of Grand Rapids, son Timothy Paul (Margaret) Franklin of Kalamazoo, granddaughter Abigail (Joseph) Franklin-Bly, of Kalamazoo, and her twin sister Margaret Haynes Bilsky of Grand Rapids.  After graduating from Frankfort High School, Mary Jane attended Central Michigan University and graduated with a bachelor degree then went on to get her masters degree from Western Michigan University.  Mary Jane was a teacher for Grand Rapids Public Schools then moved to Wyoming Public Schools.  She was very active with the Wyoming Education Association.  Mary Jane loved traveling in her motorhome, and took several cruises and trips to Europe. She spent her winters in Nokomis FL. Mary Jane was a longtime active member of Park Congregational Church, serving in many capacities as well as the choir.  A memorial service will be held Tuesday, July 30, 2019, at 11:00 am at the funeral home, with visitation one hour prior to the service.  Memorial contributions can be made to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Michigan Chapter.

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