Mary Annetta (Mary Ann) Franklin, 82, died March 15, 2021 at her home in Panama City, FL. She was born in Miami, FL on December 30, 1938. Mary Ann was the daughter of William Homer and Mary Frances (Norris) Reeder. She was a long-time resident of Lakeland, FL. After retiring, Mary and her husband moved to Stuart, VA.
Mary Ann graduated from Lakeland High School in 1956 and attended Florida State University and Florida Southern College. She was a member of Delta Gamma sorority and graduated from Florida State University in 1960. Mary Ann began her teaching career in Volusia County. She moved back to Lakeland and was a long-time math teacher at Crystal Lake Middle School. She earned a Master’s in Education from the University of South Florida. Mary Ann retired from Polk District Schools with 31 years of service in 1997. She was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution. She was a long-time member of Lakes Church (formerly First Baptist Church Lakeland) and taught Sunday school. Most recently, Mary Ann was an active member of Stuart Baptist Church, serving in several church ministries and teaching women’s bible studies. Mary Ann was an avid reader, bridge player, and lover of British television. She loved all things cardinals, flamingoes, and garnet and gold.
Mary Ann is preceded in death by her parents, her husband Benjamin E. (Ben) Franklin and her son Ross S. Franklin of Lakeland, FL. She is survived by her daughter Staci F. Mathewson (Brian) of Panama City, FL; and granddaughters Miranda and Amelia Mathewson.
Funeral services will be private. Should friends desire, memorials may be made to Samaritan’s Purse at www.samaritanspurse.org.Wilson Funeral Home of Panama City, FL will be serving the family. Online condolences may be made at www.wilsonfuneralhome.net
