Carole Laspino-Franks

Carole Ann Laspino-Franks of Fort Myers, Florida passed away peacefully on Wednesday June 19, 2024. Formerly of Rehoboth, DE and York, PA, Carole was preceded in death by her husband Holland Franks. She is survived by her sister Susan Orrison and her husband John. She also leaves behind three children: Scott Swanson and his wife Jennifer of York, PA. Erik Swanson and his wife Donna of Fort Myers, FL. Elena Jass of Wayzata, MN. Additionally, she also leaves behind six grandchildren whom she adored passionately (Liam Swanson, Lindsay Swanson, Nicholas Swanson, Lynnae Swanson, Stella Jass, Julian Jass).

Carole was born on August 19, 1940 in Socorro, NM to her parents Dwight and Mildred Cromer. She spent her childhood in Montgomery County, MD, just outside of Washington DC, where she was a talented majorette, violinist and dancer. She Graduated from the University of Maryland with a degree in Elementary Education. Later in life Carole received her Masters in Psychology from Towson University, which led to a long and satisfying career as Counselor helping countless people from all walks of life. In her spare time she often volunteered at a local prison to offer counseling.

Carole was a lover of nature and animals, with a particular affection for dogs. For decades she donated to various wildlife funds.

Her most valued time was simply spent being with family. She adored her family and enjoyed getting together for a meal, playing board games, or just simply sitting together and chatting about “life”. She also loved music, particularly Motown and nearly anything from the 70’s. She said once that one of her favorite songs was “Thank you for the music” by ABBA because it summed up her lifelong love of music. The lyrics “Who can live without it, I ask in all honesty. What would life be, without a song and a dance, who are we? So I say, Thank you for the music, for giving it to me”.

In her final years she battled Dementia and did her best to stay resilient against the progression of such an awful disease. Throughout it all she maintained her typical caring smile and amazing sense of humor. She will be missed by all who were fortunate enough to have known her.