Joanne Leatrice Porter Franz, age 90, passed peacefully on July 31, 2022. She was born on Sept. 15, 1931, in Buffalo, N.Y., to Helen M. Hoak and Russell William Porter.
Along with her parents, she is preceded in death by the love of her life, devoted husband of 70 years, A. Richard Franz, who passed on March 19, 2022; her sister, Maryanne Porter; in-laws, Ethel Beanard and A. Richard Franz Sr.; daughter, Sharon Leslie Marie Franz; son, William Richard (Susan) Franz; grandsons, Adam Michael Franz and Jaxon Martin McGee.
She leaves behind three blessed children, Gretchen (Jeffrey) Harmon, Russell (AnnMarie) Franz and Katrina (Steven) Franz Spring; 10 grandchildren, Amy (John) McGee, William (Emily) Franz Jr., Jessica Franz, Carrie (Jeffrey) Stann, Pamela (Jeromy) Fincher, Jordan Franz, Connor Franz, Randall (Kristen) Spring, Katelynn (Christopher) Smith and Kristina (Mark) George Jr.; 34 great-grandchildren; and 1 great-great-granddaughter; sister, Linda (Raymond) Braun; many cousins, nieces and nephews and very dear lifelong friends.
Joanne attended Amherst CSD, Class of 1949, where she met her high school sweetheart, Richard. Joanne is a graduate of Rosary Hill College. She retired in 1995 from the Batavia City School District working as a teacher aide, a position she held very dear to her heart with extreme devotion to the students she helped, guided and taught every day.
Joanne, along with her husband, Richard, were members of the Victims Assistance Program in Genesee County as together they helped many families with their grief and loss of their loved ones. Together they made their home in Darien for the past 65 years.
Joanne had the ability to connect and communicate, to educate, guide, counsel and advise. Her simple devotion, joy and love for others and steadfast beliefs were her gifts in life. Her stern and simple ways left a powerful impact that sustained all who knew her. Mom was most proud of her children, family, and the legacy both her and Dad leave behind.
Private service will be held for immediate family only.
Arrangements made by C.B. Beach & Son Mortuary, Inc., Corfu, N.Y.