Lillie Mae Franklin

Lillie Mae Franklin, 88, entered her heavenly home, peacefully on May 2, 2025, in Wenatchee, Washington.

Lillie Mae was born on June 15, 1936 in Sevier County, Tennessee, to Oliver and Lona (Barnes) Rayfield.  Surrounded by grandparent, aunts, uncles and many cousins, she was raised with strong family values that remained central throughout her life, particularly after the passing of her mother in 1939. In 1951, the family left the Smoky Mountains for the Pacific Northwest where her father found work logging. They settled in Peshastin, WA, where Lillie Mae graduated from Peshastin High School in 1955.  She loved to share her memories being crowned "Princess Peshastin", riding on the float, representing her community in the Apple Blossom parade.

After high school, Lillie Mae and her sister Avis worked as waitresses at the River Terrace Cafe in Leavenworth.  A young Tennessean from Sevier County named George Franklin, frequented the cafe, and fell in the love with the waitress.  George and Lillie Mae were married on March 30, 1956, in Coeur d’Alene Idaho.  Together they raised three children in Cashmere. Lillie Mae worked hard to care and provide for her family, including working in the family orchard, sewing and mending clothing, tending an incredible garden, canning, baking and cooking. George and Lillie Mae supported their children's activities, whether it was school or sporting events.  They continued to be devoted grandparents and could always be found at their grandson’s games, performances, activities.

Lillie Mae was a devoted member of Mid Valley Baptist Church and held the distinction of being its longest-living member. Her faith was a guiding force in her life, and she participated actively in church activities, including weekly Bible study.  Lillie Mae loved her Cashmere Bulldogs, Gonzaga Bulldogs, Seahawks and Mariners.  She always cheered for the Tennessee Vols whenever she had the chance to watch a game.

She found joy in simple pleasures. Quilting, walking, playing BUNCO with friends, but nothing brought her greater happiness than spending time with her family. Her sweet spirit, caring nature, and sense of humor left lasting impressions on all who knew her.

Lillie Mae is lovingly remembered by her children: Ron (Tracy), Randy (Estela), and Carrie; grandsons: Ryan (Tanna), Brett (Annelise), Adam (Alisa), and Kelson; and great-grandchildren: Shiloh, Khyla, William, Henry, Lenora, Logan, Charlotte, and Luke. She is also survived by her sisters Wilda Ward and Doris Nierman (Dave); brother John Rayfield (Hazel); Aunt Myrtle Floyd, and many cousins, nieces, nephews, friends, and church family, who held a special place in her heart.  She was preceded in death by her parents Oliver and Lona Rayfield; husband George Young Franklin; sisters Avis Higginbotham and Marie Hurst; and brother Curtis Rayfield.

The Caring Cottage family has been Lillie Mae's extended family for the last two years.  Jason, Merryn, and staff, loved and cared for Lillie Mae just as if she was their own “Mama”.  For this the Franklin Family will be forever grateful.   

A heartfelt thanks to Caring Cottage and to Confluence Health Hospice.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, May 9th at 1 PM at Mid Valley Baptist Church, 8345 Stine Hill Road, Cashmere, WA 98815.  

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Mid Valley Baptist Church or Knights of Columbus HELP, 625 S. Elliott, Wenatchee, WA  98801

May the memories of Lillie Mae bring comfort to those who knew and loved her.