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Isabella Katherine Franzen

December 18, 2008 - August 26, 2022
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Thomas McAfee Funeral Homes
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Clara Cassell
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Lily Caligan-Gilliam
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Judson Gee
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Ty Richey
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Julia sanders
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Georgia Knox
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Anthony Butler
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Gisela Bonny
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Lateefah Little
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Bella Cruz
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Wendy Cooper
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Visitation
Thomas McAfee Funeral Homes, Downtown
639 North Main Steet
Greenville, SC 29601
Tuesday 8/30, 4:30 pm - 7:00 pm
Service
Thomas McAfee Funeral Homes, Downtown
639 North Main Steet
Greenville, SC 29601
Wednesday 8/31, 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm

Isabella Katherine Franzen, 13, the amazing daughter of Jonathan Patrick Franzen and Kimberly “Kimmy” Scieszka Franzen, passed away on Friday, August 26, 2022. Isabella was born in Greenville, SC. She was a joy to have a conversation with and could talk about the silly and mundane or serious social issues. Adults who met her forContinue Reading

Tribute Video

Clara Cassell left a message on December 10, 2023:
i miss you
Lily Caligan-Gilliam left a message on June 11, 2023:
They will always be so loved.
Hayden Miller left a message on February 19, 2023:
Isabella was a classmate of mine. We shared Spanish, Math, and C3. She and I weren’t very close, but every time I got to speak with her it felt like a weight was lifted off of my shoulders. She never failed to impress me with her intelligence. Not to mention, her artwork! I remember one day in Math we were trying out a difficult worksheet made for high school/college, and she was the first person to finish the whole sheet. She completed it in less than 30 minutes, and got every single answer correct! I sat next to her and Naika in Spanish class in 7th grade and I’m glad I had a friend like her. She truly was an amazing person and still continues to inspire us all. I love you, Isabelle ❤️
Judson Gee left a message on September 14, 2022:
I am so saddened to hear this news. I can’t even imagine what you must be going through so please know you, Kim & the rest of your family will be in my prayers and heart. Sending healing blessings & love. Isabella was the apple of your eye, we all saw that & she will be remembered forever. My deepest condolences Patrick, I love you brother ❤️❣️
Kiki banias left a message on September 14, 2022:
Our deepest condolences for Isabella May she RIP !
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Isla DeTreville left a message on September 12, 2022:
In memory of Isabella Katherine Franzen, Isla DeTreville lit a candle
Ty Richey left a message on September 8, 2022:
Kimmie, I was so sorry to hear this; I can't imagine your pain but I am keeping you and your family in my thoughts.
Julia sanders left a message on September 8, 2022:
In memory of Isabella Katherine Franzen, Julia sanders lit a candle
Georgia Knox left a message on September 7, 2022:
Sending love and strength to the Franzen family in this difficult time. Isabelle was an inspiration to everyone around her. ❤️
Jim & Shane left a message on September 3, 2022:
Dear Dan and Marge, out deepest sympathies go out to you and to Isabella's parents. We remember her as a lively, inquisitive, joyful young girl and know that she will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. She is now with the Lord, but leaves us with tears and broken hearts. May we all be together again in the life to come.
Amy Emery left a message on September 3, 2022:
I was so shocked and sorry to hear about Isabella's passing. She and my daughter Lili were in the same elementary school class almost every year at Stone. I loved seeing her sweet smile when I would visit their class or chaperone a field trip. She will certainly be missed. This photo was taken on the last day of school in 4th grade. The kids loved their teacher so much, they were all crying! Your entire family is in my thoughts - I can't imagine losing a child. Your community is here to support you and we all feel your pain.
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Kim Groome left a message on September 1, 2022:
Patrick and Kimmy. Send you so much love and prayers for the loss of your sweet Isabella. She left a special mark on this world. Her memory, passion and talent will live on through all of beautiful her art, writings, and special moments shared by those who got to know this beautiful soul.
Sean Pryor left a message on September 1, 2022:
Isabella was the first friend my son Sean made in 6th grade in his Spanish class. She is truly missed and both my son and I, will continue to keep your family in our prayers.
Caroline C Harvey left a message on September 1, 2022:
Kim, my heart breaks for you and your family and all Isabella's friends. She was a beautiful, talented and sweet girl. I pray that you will find comfort in knowing how many loved Isabella and will miss her.
Jane Leo left a message on August 31, 2022:
My prayers are with you and your family. What a wonderful person Isabella was to all of us at Stone. We will miss that smile and bubbly personality! God bless you all!
Cousin Beth Hill left a message on August 31, 2022:
Patrick and Kimmy, sending you my deepest condolences for the loss of your precious Isabella. She was a sweet, loving, beautiful, little soul who will be missed by all who loved her. Aunt Judy and Uncle Bob are guiding her to God's peace. May your families surrounded you with love and comfort during this time of tragedy. Sending prayers of strength and peace. Love you so very much, Beth
Cathy Stevens left a message on August 31, 2022:
The entire Ching/Stevens family sends our love to Isabella's family. We have not seen her much in the past few years but had the great pleasure of spending time with her during fifth grade. She was always such a joy to be around - so clever, funny, unexpected. We all just adored her. She was a bright light and will be missed so much.
Anthony Butler left a message on August 31, 2022:
In memory of Isabella Katherine Franzen, Anthony Butler lit a candle
Brenda Merrill left a message on August 31, 2022:
Kimmy- I am so sorry to hear of this. My heart hurts for you and your family. I will pray for peace and that you can mend your broken heart.
Isla DeTreville left a message on August 31, 2022:
Although we were never close, Isabella always brought joy to our art class. We are keeping her cubby and her artwork as placed center when we grouped it together. I will miss you, your talent, your posts about art, and everything about you. Your fellow classmate, Isla DeTreville
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Gisela Bonny left a message on August 31, 2022:
My sincere thoughts and prayers are with you Kimmy and your family. ❤️
Aunt Resa Franzen left a message on August 31, 2022:
Isabella Katheroine Franzen I love saying your name...it’s royal, regal and noble. It embodies all of who you are...a lion spirit. And yes, a lioness is still a lion. You are strong and fierce and yet compassionate, gentle and kind. You are passionate, loyal...a truth seeker extraordinaire. Your heart is full of tender mercy and compassion and you faithfully defend and fight for a righteous cause whether it be for a kitty kat or children working in a sweat house. You are precious, adorable and light-hearted...I love your humor and quick wit! And most of all you are LOVED!! You are ....always in my heart!! Aunt Resa
Carol&James Hill Aunt &Uncle left a message on August 31, 2022:
Our lovely sweet Isabella uncle Jim and auntie miss you so much you are going to be such an amazing artist in heaven. Isabella you are so creative and special your mom and dad will miss you so much & so will all of your beautiful friends from school. Your memory will always live on with the Franzen Yaiyai is waiting for you in heaven so you both could coddle together ❤️ We miss and love you so much! Daddy will always love you and will always give you those big hugs and kisses ? Rest in peace no more pain We love ❤️ you Aunty Carol & Uncle Jim
Lateefah Little left a message on August 31, 2022:
Kim and Patrick, My heart aches for you. I’m praying for the strength, peace, and understanding that only God can provide for you at this time. I did not have the pleasure of knowing Isabella, but I do know the two of you so, I’m sure she knew how much you love her. She sounds like an amazing young lady. May God’s arms be wrapped around you and may his love continue to cover you.
Bella Cruz left a message on August 31, 2022:
she was one of my favorite friends, it hurts to see her leave so soon from this world.
Wendy Cooper left a message on August 31, 2022:
My heart and prayers are with you during this heartbreaking time. Sending you love .
David Shaw left a message on August 31, 2022:
Patrick, Kimmy, and family, you have my deepest sympathy. My heart aches for you and I wish you courage, comfort, peace, and lots of love.
Denis and Rita Larrivee left a message on August 30, 2022:
Dear Dan and Marge Please accept our deepest sympathies on the loss of your beloved grand daughter. May her soul RIP and may Jesus console you and all who loved her.
naika left a message on August 30, 2022:
Ill miss u isabelle mi amiga. You were the bestest freind ive ever had.
Julia sanders left a message on August 30, 2022:
I was never close with Isabella, I remember having her in one of my drama classes in elementary school. I remembered her name and face as soon as I saw her. I am so sorry to her family and close friends.
Judy and Jerry Lema left a message on August 30, 2022:
Marge and Dan, we always enjoyed hearing of your escapades with Beautiful Isabella as she was growing up..you have great memories. May you feel the comfort of Our Mother in Heaven and the nearness of our Lord . We love you, Judy and Jerry
Terri Giambalvo left a message on August 30, 2022:
In memory of Isabella Katherine Franzen, Terri Giambalvo lit a candle
Sonya Watson left a message on August 30, 2022:
In memory of Isabella Katherine Franzen, Sonya Watson lit a candle
Tanya Rathbun left a message on August 30, 2022:
In memory of Isabella Katherine Franzen, Tanya Rathbun lit a candle
Tim & Jeanne Eye left a message on August 30, 2022:
We are heartbroken to hear about the loss of Isabella. We are praying for the entire family during this time and the days to come.
Jeffrey W Chenail left a message on August 30, 2022:
So sorry for your loss thoughts and prayers
Julie Godshall Brown left a message on August 30, 2022:
Kim and family, Our entire team at Godshall is shocked and saddened to hear of your beautiful daughter's passing. We will be praying for you and will support you in any way that we can. Please accept our deepest sympathy.
Karen and John Steffen left a message on August 30, 2022:
Patrick, Karen and I are sorry for your loss. We will keep you in our prayers
Mark O'Rourke left a message on August 30, 2022:
Although I did not know her, I am a member at St. Mary and in the Pillars men's group with Dan. I am sorry to lose Isabella and for Isabella to lose her life on earth. We will pray for her and her family. We know that our prayers are heard by the Lord.
Jennifer Boehmke left a message on August 30, 2022:
I will never forget the time I hunted for dinosaurs Isabella had hidden all over the living room and kitchen. Isabella kept count and I do not believe I ever found all of them. Another special memory is the time Isabella and a friend treated Kimmy, I, and the other Mom to a spa treatment, complete with a facial, massage and foot soak. No charge, but tips accepted! Thoughts and prayers for all of the family. Love, Jennifer
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Jean and Peter Mathern and family left a message on August 30, 2022:
In memory of Isabella Katherine Franzen, Jean and Peter Mathern and family lit a candle
Cindy Boren left a message on August 30, 2022:
I am so sorry to hear about your loss. Sending love, hugs and prayers to you and your family.
Deidre Manning left a message on August 30, 2022:
Sending y’all deepest condolences, love & prayers! Love y’all
Tony and Leslie left a message on August 30, 2022:
Dan and Marge We are so sorry for the loss of this beautiful child. May choirs of angels comfort her and bring her to God the all merciful. And may Jesus, Mary and Joseph comfort you in your grief. Tony and Leslie
Donna Brown left a message on August 30, 2022:
Patrick, Kimmy and family, my heart breaks for you in the loss of your precious daughter. Praying for the Father to comfort you as only He can.
Genia Styles Harvey left a message on August 30, 2022:
Deepest Sympathies.
John & Lora Harrison left a message on August 30, 2022:
In memory of Isabella Katherine Franzen, John & Lora Harrison lit a candle
Mia Phillips left a message on August 29, 2022:
I am so sorry for your loss. I will miss my funny, precious, Hufflepuff so much.I have loved every moment I got to spend with her. We had a long running joke that she reminded me about every time I saw her. She would bring it up in classes every chance she could. I will always remember her sense of fun, her characters she became for our scenes and improvs, her love of fencing, our talks about the movies and shows she was interested in over the years, and of course our many discussions about all things Harry Potter.
Paul & Faith Radcliffe left a message on August 29, 2022:
As Grandparents, we understand how precious the young people in our families are to each of us. I spent time with Isabella, Her Dad, and Uncle Robert in Landrum and we often saw her and her Dad at family functions at her Uncle Robert's and Aunt Celeste's Home in Sylvia, NC. She was a delightful girl. Our hearts are broken at the tragic loss of this beautiful young lady. We are so sorry for your loss. She is sheltered in the arms of God. The world was made brighter because she touched all of our lives and hearts. Paul & Faith Radcliffe
Niskua Watson left a message on August 29, 2022:
In memory of Isabella Katherine Franzen, Niskua Watson lit a candle
Mike Goatley left a message on August 29, 2022:
Santa Jaws.
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Susan Murphy left a message on August 29, 2022:
Shine on in Heaven.
Jen Knox & Family left a message on August 29, 2022:
Dear Kim & Family, our hearts ache with yours. Isabella was an original, a beautiful kind soul, and a wonderful friend to Georgia. She is so missed and we'll keep her and you all in our hearts. ?
Susan Murphy left a message on August 29, 2022:
In memory of Isabella Katherine Franzen, Susan Murphy lit a candle
Eric Spann left a message on August 29, 2022:
My dear friends, the grief and pain you feel in this dark hour are greater than anyone should ever have to bear. As I have contemplated what words of consolation or comfort I might say to you, the words of someone far wiser than me are the only thing came to my heart and mind. In a time of great darkness and despair, the songwriter Andrew Peterson went to a monastery called the Abbey of Gethsemane in the frozen hills of Kentucky hoping to find answers to help him to come to terms with the doubts his suffering had grown in him—he did not doubt the existence of God, but he doubted his goodness. In this monastic setting, he spent three days praying, fasting, journaling, and reading Scripture. Again and again, he asked God for an answer to his suffering, and there was only silence. He felt betrayed, angry, bitter, hopeless, lost, and numb—but the heavens remained silent. On the day of his scheduled departure, he emerged from his room disillusioned and resigned that even though he did not find the answers he was seeking, he could at least experience the beauty of the garden for which the monastery was named. He wandered the hills in the cold Kentucky winter for what seemed like miles and came upon a sculpture of three men huddled together in sleep. They were covered in leaves, and it took him a moment to realize that it was Peter, James, and John, asleep in the garden on the night the Lord was betrayed and taken to his scourging and death. He continued knowing that he would soon see Jesus praying, but not expecting much. When he came upon the sculpture of Jesus, what he encountered was an icon of the Lord’s suffering unlike anything he had ever seen before: “The artist depicted not a pious, romanticized Jesus, but a Jesus whose soul was deeply troubled to the point of death. His back was arched. He looked like he had staggered and fallen to his knees. His hands covered his upturned face and his elbows were splayed out like wings.” He continues, “the statue looked exactly the way my heart felt. Alone. Confused. Hammered with grief. Face turned toward the heavens not in a posture of doubt, but of desperation. The statue was not just a mirror of my suffering—it was a window into God’s own. I understood in a way that I never had before the profound comfort of the Incarnation. Jesus, the man of sorrows, hurts with us.” The author says, “I was comforted. I wasn’t healed. The pain wasn’t taken away, nor could I have explained what had happened, but as a wise friend once told me, God’s presence is to be esteemed more than his provision. God is with us, and his name is Jesus.” Despite the incomprehensible pain and suffering of this moment, I pray that you will know that God is with you, and as you struggle to make sense of this tragedy in helplessness and grief, know that His strength is made perfect in our weakness. Earlier this evening, I attempted to post something close to this on the candle lighting page, but I’m not sure that the post was saved. If it was, please forgive me for sharing these thoughts once again. To close, I want to say how much I love you all. My heart grieves for you. I pray that the God of all comfort will grant you hope and peace and help in the days to come. Me, my family, and many other friends are praying for you and will continue to pray for you. God bless you. Love, Eric, Lorie, and Lydia Spann
Anthony Gatto left a message on August 29, 2022:
My heart goes out to your family in this devastating time. She was such a beautiful girl
Nikki Thompson left a message on August 29, 2022:
My heart remembers that sweet smile and voice from years of Camp Fun and St James. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
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Rex & Srebrenka O'Steen left a message on August 29, 2022:
Srebrenka and I are sorry for the death of Isabella.
Terri Giambalvo left a message on August 29, 2022:
Kim, I’m so sorry and can’t imagine what you are going through. Isabella was a beautiful soul. You are in my thoughts and prayers. ❤️❤️❤️
Sherry Lockaby Pelletier left a message on August 29, 2022:
Kim I am so sorry for your loss. Sending positive energy to you and your family.
Bob Markway left a message on August 29, 2022:
Dan and Marge, my time with Isabella, photographing your 50th Anniversary together, will always be a special memory. She was a true delight. Bob
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Shari Lancaster left a message on August 29, 2022:
Kimmy, Patrick and family...we are so incredibly sorry for your loss. All of our love. Shari, Lily & Ava Lancaster
Katie Dunn left a message on August 29, 2022:
Isabella's warm smile, kindness, art and beauty will never be forgotten.
Tanya left a message on August 29, 2022:
Kimmy (and family), I am so sorry to hear about Isabella. My heart is broken for you. I know she was your life and your whole heart! Sending you prayers and love. May your memories carry you through these trying times.
Charlotte Patterson Joyner left a message on August 29, 2022:
Isabella had such a beautiful soul and I feel lucky to have spent time with her.
Candace Bolt left a message on August 29, 2022:
Oh, Kimmy, I am so very sorry. Isabella was a beautiful child and will be forever missed. Sending you love and light ❤️
Thomas McAfee Funeral Homes left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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