Elizabeth Ann DeFranco

On Tuesday, June 23, 2026, Elizabeth Ann DeFranco accepted her heavenly reward for a life well lived. She left this world much the way she lived in it—with quiet strength, unwavering grace, and a heart that somehow always had room for one more person. She wasn't interested in being extraordinary. She simply believed in showing up, keeping her word, kindness, loving friends and family fiercely was enough. It turns out, it was everything.

She loved music and had an infectious laugh; she was witty and competitive. She worried about everyone but herself, and made every visitor feel like the one she'd been hoping would stop by. Ann made this world a better place.

Her greatest accomplishment was the family she nurtured, the friendships she treasured, the traditions she created, and the lessons she passed along without ever realizing she was teaching.

She is preceded in death by her beloved husband Paul Frank DeFranco and parents Mary Scruggs Stephenson (Oscar) and Paul
McDonald (Odell). Ann leaves behind those that loved her deeply and who now carry pieces of her into the future, her son, Lon DeFranco, her daughter, Carla DeFranco Rouss and son-in-love, Keith. Her sisters Lynda Stephenson Wilder, Pearl DeFranco Bailey and Paulette McDonald Haley. Many nieces, nephews and cousins.

The measure of a life is not how long it lasts, but how deeply it is woven into the lives of those left behind. By that measure, hers was immeasurable.

May we honor her not only by remembering her, but by living a little more like she did— with faith, generosity, humor, kindness and love.

“Tell all my friends I love them. Tell everyone I love them. God bless and may the good Lord bless and keep you and yours always and in all ways.” - Ann :)