Loretta Jane Franke

Loretta was born on October 2, 1950, in Jewett, IL, the daughter of John Carl and Velma Katherine (Hawes) Elliott. She married William “Bill” Franke on April 1, 1974, in Springfield.

Loretta was a 1969 graduate of Southeast High School. For many years, she worked for Lindley’s Florist and then went on to become a Special Education Assistant for District 186. Loretta’s greatest and most enjoyable pastime was watching her kids and grandkids play sports. She traveled frequently through the years for sporting events. Loretta was an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan and loved spending time with her dogs. She was an advocate for the blood bank and always willing to donate blood. Loretta was a member of the Chatham Jaycees and spent time volunteering with the Special Olympics for many years. She cherished her annual trip to Madeira Beach with her sisters.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Carl Elliott.

Loretta is survived by her husband, William Franke of Chatham; two sons, Kyle (wife, Emily) and Nick Franke, both of Chatham; six grandchildren, Paxton, Alaina, Lyla, Payton, Jax, and Symon; four sisters, Lou Ann Troyer of Eureka, IL, Lorraine Sawyer of Wilmington, IL, Janice Whitaker of Lakeland, FL, and Wendy (husband, Pat) Osburn of Auburn; many family members and friends; and her loving dog, Zoey.

Cremation was provided by Butler Cremation Tribute Center prior to ceremonies.

Memorial Gathering: Family will receive friends from 4:00 until 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 10, 2021, at Prairie View Reception Center, 8865 State Rt. 4, Chatham. A reception will follow from 7:00 until 9:00 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Special Olympics of IL Area 17, 900 Christopher Lane, Suite 7, Springfield, IL 62712.

The family is being served by Butler Funeral Home-Chatham, 8855 State Rt. 4, Chatham.