Obituary of Elizabeth Franklin

Mrs. F.L. Franklin 3/7/1918 - 9/23/2014 Elizabeth Franklin passed away peacefully at home with family by her side on September 23, 2014, in Tucson, Arizona. She is survived by her children, Hadley, Mr. and Mrs. Greg Franklin and Stephanie Franklin and five grandchildren. Elizabeth's legacy is one of intense love for her family, devotion to her husband of 67 years and an impassioned love and interest in life. She was born in Twin Falls, Idaho, March 7, 1918 to Theodore and Eleanor Arnreiter. She graduated from St. Helen's Hall in Portland, Oregon (now Oregon Episcopal School). Her strength and determination in life would come from her pioneering Austrian father and Eleanor, her American mother, concert pianist and teacher. Her grandfather, Dr. Fred W. Vincent of Pendleton, Oregon would also be a significant force in her life. Elizabeth married Frank Franklin, a Lt. in the United States Army in 1941, in Cove Oregon; they were married 67 years. This would be the beginning of Frank and Elizabeth Franklin's family and an adventure that would test the strongest of souls. The military life adventure would last over three decades and take the family around the world. Elizabeth followed her husband across the Pacific to Okinawa in 1951 with her three young sons. Frank was the commander of White Beach. This was just the beginning of a long and formidable life as a military wife. There were more challenges to come; Korea, Vietnam and so many more that could be described in volumes. Elizabeth had an insatiable appetite for being involved with and helping people. Over the years, she has served in the Red Cross, taught in many different capacities from art and theater, to GED's for military personnel. Whether in Asia, Europe or the U.S. she truly understood the things that mattered, and they were always about people. Elizabeth had a love of animals and was an advocate for good animal care. She loved horses and was an accomplished rider. Elizabeth moved to Arizona with her husband in the 80's. She continued her interests and spirit in life with the symphony, arts, theater and other civic activities. She was a gifted artist, writer, teacher and mentor. Her life spirit and love of people was an inspiration for all who knew her. Inurnment will be held at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, VA; no date at present. Family and friends are invited to donate to the St. Helen's Hall Endowment Fund at the Oregon Episcopal School, Portland, Oregon, or the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States. Arrangements entrusted to ADAIR FUNERAL HOMES, Avalon Chapel (520-742-7901).