Frankie Lou Johnsen

Frankie Lou Johnsen, 86, of Phoenix, Arizona, passed away on September 10, 2026. Born on May 4, 1940, in Phoenix, Arizona, Frankie was the beloved daughter of Marie and Frank and the youngest of seven children: Billy, Lola, Mary, Charley, R.L, Art, and then Frankie. From her earliest years in Tolleson, she carried forward a steady warmth and intelligence that would become the hallmark of her life.

Frankie attended Phoenix Union High School, where she graduated as Salutatorian of a class of more than 700, an early reflection of her sharp mind and determination. She continued her education at ASU, majoring in Microbiology and Home Economics, bringing together curiosity, practicality, and a thoughtful approach to caring for others.

Frankie met her lifelong husband and soulmate, Larry Johnsen, through the 4-H Club at the Arizona State Fair, introduced by neighbor Lloyd Blackmer, who famously pointed out to Lawrence, “She can cook!” They married in 1961 and were happily married ever since. Together they built a life centered on devotion, family, and the quiet strength of enduring partnership. Frankie and Larry shared three children: Jeff, Steve, and Kristi. Later, Frankie was gifted by Steve with two grandchildren, Brandon and Breanna, whom she lived for, and loved very much.

Frankie’s nurturing spirit found its natural home in her career as a preschool teacher, a role she embraced with deep purpose and joy. She absolutely loved children, and her classroom reflected both her intelligence and her creativity. She created a curriculum filled with hands-on learning experiences, and with her gift for crafting, she made learning lively, welcoming, and fun. Her work left a lasting imprint. Many lifelong friends and contacts grew from her classroom, a testament to the care she offered so freely and the respect she inspired.

Her love for art was evident in the quilts she made and the many other creations that carried her personal touch. They were carefully made, thoughtfully given, and often infused with the kind of wit that could brighten a room without ever drawing attention to itself. She also loved to cook for her family, and she beamed when complimented, finding genuine happiness in the simple joy of nourishing the people she loved.

Frankie also gave her time to the wider community. She was a member of the Kiwanis Club of Phoenix and sewed “Beads Of Courage Bags” for children undergoing cancer treatment. This work reflected on both her generosity, and her steady, practical compassion.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the many friends, neighbors, and community members who have reached out with comforting words and acts of kindness. Your expressions of sympathy and shared memories have brought immense comfort and strength. In Frankie’s memory, her family encourages all who are capable to donate blood, as transfusions extended her life and were a vital part of her treatment.

“She was the best thing that ever happened to me. She was the nicest person I ever met.” —Larry Johnsen