She was born on October 9, 1934, at Queenstown, Guyana, to parents, Harry and Lena Kowlessar. In addition to her parents, Jean was preceded in death by her husband Herbert “Herby” Franklin.
She is survived by her children, Keith Franklin and wife Lucero, Deborah Augustus and husband Anthony, Gillian Franklin, Kay Wright and husband Wayne, Shawn Taylor and husband Robert; and her step-daughter June Barton; eleven grandchildren Jamel Franklin, Jakim James, Shari James, Chantal Edwards, Kevin Franklin, Yannick Edwards, Roandrea Williams, Beonica Taylor, Ryan Augustus, Rachel Stephens, and Prince R. Taylor; seven great grandchildren Khamari Rivera, Greyson Edwards, Maliyah Williams, Raelynn Edwards, Christian Medina, Ronin Edwards, and Julian Medina; five step grandchildren Shirley Hincapie, Roshawne Hall, Tony Barton, Sheron Iqbal, and Kaylin Reyes;
brothers Desmond and Walter Kowlessar, sisters, Thelma Rollins, Gloria Bethune, Monica McCalman, and Bernadette Kowlessar, and her nieces and nephews.
Jean was a happy stay at home mother during her children’s early years, she was completely devoted to her family and their life together. She immigrated to the USA in the early 1970’s, and worked for Brentanos, and The College Board, although her favorite place to be was at home with her family. Jean retired in 1987 and moved from Brooklyn, New York to South Miami, FL. She enjoyed dancing with her husband Herby, especially on New Year’s Eve. Jean enjoyed reading novels, magazines, and the newspaper, and keeping up with current events.
Jean was a dedicate member of Visitation Catholic Church, in Miami, Florida, where she sometimes volunteered. She loved their sermons, teachings and sometimes attended their classes. Jean loved her parents, one of her favorite sayings was “Honor thy mother and father.” Her favorite flowers were calla lilies. She loved to cook, bake and make desserts. She was not a dog lover, but she certainly fell in love with Rachel’s dogs Spice and Dice.
Jean lived a long, happy, successful life, cherished her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, step grandchildren, and other loved ones. She enjoyed life to the fullest, and loved to tell stories of the precious and beautiful memories in her life.
Her burial will be private. If you have sent flowers or memorial contributions, we thank you and are
appreciative. Our mother loved people and would be happy if you would pass that love on, so
please hug someone and tell them that you love them.
“Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” A Psalm of David 23:6.
