Edna Louise Franson

Edna Louise Franson passed away peacefully on June 22, 2025, in Orlando, Florida, at the age of 74. Born on November 12, 1950, in Oneonta, New York, to Van and Betty Smith, Edna was the youngest of three children and is survived by her beloved brothers, Erwin Smith and Edwin Smith.

Though she grew up in rural upstate New York, Edna lived a life full of travel, adventure, and purpose—making homes and touching hearts wherever she went. After earning her nursing license, she began a remarkable career in emergency and leadership nursing. Her dedication and compassion led her not only to serve patients directly, but also to shape the next generation of caregivers as a respected teacher and mentor. Her bag was always packed—ready to hop on a plane or helicopter to help someone in need.

On December 5, 1973, Edna married the love of her life, Bradley Gordon Franson. Their marriage was a partnership filled with love, laughter, and shared purpose. Bradley, who preceded her in death, now welcomes his beautiful Edna into Heaven.

Edna is survived by her three children and their families: Kathryn E. Zepeda and husband Noel Zepeda, Sean B. Franson and partner Michael Herndon, as well as, Dagan Gordon

Franson and wife Lizandra Franson. She was a proud and devoted grandmother to Dylan Zepeda, Jasmine Zepeda, Bradley Luis Franson, and Brandon Dagan Franson. Though the biological mother of three, she was affectionately called “Mom” by many more. Her home was always open—to her children’s friends, to anyone in need of comfort, or to those simply looking for kindness, a good story, or a cup of coffee.

Edna’s quick wit, warmth, and humor were unmatched. She loved golfing—until an unfortunate (but memorable) incident with a tree brought her golfing days to an end. She was an avid reader, and once she discovered the Kindle, her appetite for books became nearly endless.

To those who knew her, Edna will always be remembered for her strength, grace, and unfailing love.

Her daughter Kathryn will forever cherish one of her most familiar and loving refrains: “Kathryn, get me some coffee.”

Her son Sean will forever treasure her reminders:

“Don’t drink the last Diet Pepsi,”

“Don’t show up without my Dunkin’ Donuts iced coffee,” and

“If you walk away from the table hungry, that’s your fault.”

Her son Dagan will always remember two of her signature phrases:

“NMP – Not My Problem,” and “It is what it is. Move on.”

A Celebration of Life will be held at a future date to honor and remember Edna’s extraordinary life.