Penny Anita Mears Franklin, 50, born in Altha, Florida, and a resident of Tallahassee most of her adult life, lived April 10th, 1962 until January 2nd, 2013. Penny is described by loved ones as a free spirit, with childlike appreciation for life, and whose curiosity and sense of adventure led her to explore the deeper meaning to life, existence, politics, and spiritual truths. She was known well for her easy laughter, generous spirit, courageous heart and sunny disposition, touching those closest to her as well as those that came into her life even briefly. She enjoyed traveling internationally, visiting 13 countries during 2009, satisfying a lifelong interest in traditions and cultures different from her own. She was generous with her time and love with her family and friends, and is remembered for her kind gestures and good hearted conversation. In her own words, she had this to say about her life’s purpose: “I would like to truly touch and be a ‘transforming’ force in people. I want to also be transformed through our relationships. I want my life to be simple, but rich and deep.”
Penny is preceded in death by her father, Ernest Mears and her sister, Teresa Stilwell.
She is survived by her daughters, Holly Elyse Franklin and Hillary Nicole Franklin; Mother, Lucile Mears; siblings, Ronnie Mears, Tim Mears, Chris Sears, Sharon Pollard, and Elizabeth Holland; Grand-dog, Rio; as well as many nieces, nephews and friends.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held, Saturday January 5, at 3 pm at Culley’s MeadowWood Funeral Home at 1753 Riggins Road in Tallahassee Florida. A private burial service will be held on Sunday, January 6, at 2 pm at Sunny Hill Church in Altha Florida.
Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to Big Bend Hospice of Tallahassee Florida or to the American Cancer Society.
Culley’s MeadowWood Funeral Home in Tallahassee is in charge of arrangements (ph. 850-877-8191).