Isabella Katherine Franzen

December 18, 2008 - August 26, 2022

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Thomas McAfee Funeral Homes, Downtown

639 North Main Steet

Greenville, SC 29601

Tuesday 8/30, 4:30 pm - 7:00 pm

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 for the first time regularly commented on her intellect, maturity, and wit.

She loved art and always had a sketch book with her so she could constantly draw and create. Other art media she enjoyed was to paint and create digital art. She attended both Stone Academy and League Academy magnet schools for the arts as well as the ARMES program through the Fine Arts Center. Isabella also enjoyed drama and acting. She participated in the South Carolina Children’s Theater since kindergarten, taking classes from her favorite SCCT teacher, Ms. Mia. Isabella enjoyed fencing as well, with the foil as her weapon of choice. She liked creating massive LEGO builds and miniatures. She enjoyed anime’ and loved Garfield; having numerous cartoons that had been cut out of the funnies section hanging on her wall. She also loved anything dinosaur related, including Jeff Goldblum. Her favorite dinosaur was the Dilophosaurus.

Her amazing personality and loving soul, which were indescribable lights shining bright, will forever be cherished in the hearts of her parents, Kimberly and Patrick as well as; her loving maternal grandparents, Daniel “Dan” and Margaret “Marge” Scieszka; her wonderful Aunts and Uncles, Kimberly and Costas Petromichelis, Robert and Celeste Franzen, Jr., Theresa Franzen, Tina McGuire and Joseph Muns; adoring cousins, Madeline and Beau Franzen, Paul and Sellers Petromichelis, Cecilia and Jarod Tallo, Maria Petromichelis and Brent Susko, Savannah and Alexis McGuire; Jordan Muns; Great Aunt, Cynthia Geoffroy; and her beloved cat, KitKit; and countless other loving family members and friends. Isabella had several very special friends, including Olivia Scott, who she met in Preschool at St. James Elementary when they were two years old. The entire Scott family was like a second family to Isabella and treated her as one of their own. Other special friends and families include Jasmin Goatley and family, Lucy McMahon and family, Nakai Watson and family, Sissy and the James Gang, Lydia Aylestock and family, and the Cooper family.

Isabella was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Robert Carl and Judith Clardy Franzen.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 30, 2022, from 4:30 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Thomas McAfee Funeral Homes, Downtown. The funeral service will be held on Wednesday August 31, 2022, at 2:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Thomas McAfee Funeral Homes, Downtown. Burial will be in Woodlawn Memorial Park. The Reverend Deb Richardson-Moore will officiate the service. Costas and Paul Petromichelis, Joseph Muns, Bobby Franzen, Quenton Mashburn, Chad James, Jordan Muns, and Mark Cooper will serve as pallbearers.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Isabella’s honor to South Carolina Children’s Theater at PO Box 9340, Greenville, SC, 29604.

A Go Fund Me account has been set up in memory of Isabella, please visit https://gofund.me/5759d4bb.

Friends are encouraged to share notes of condolence and their favorite memories of Isabella for the family by clicking on the button labeled “Leave A Message, Share A Memory” below.

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Thomas McAfee Funeral Homes, Downtown

639 North Main Steet

Greenville, SC 29601

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Tuesday 8/30, 4:30 pm - 7:00 pm

Thomas McAfee Funeral Homes, Downtown

639 North Main Steet

Greenville, SC 29601

Map

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

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They will always be so loved.

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 ❤️

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 ❤️❣️

Our deepest condolences for Isabella May she RIP !

In memory of Isabella Katherine Franzen, Isla DeTreville lit a candle

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

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.

In memory of Isabella Katherine Franzen, Julia sanders lit a candle

Sending love and strength to the Franzen family in this difficult time. Isabelle was an inspiration to everyone around her. ❤️

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.

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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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.

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.

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.

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!

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

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.

In memory of Isabella Katherine Franzen, Anthony Butler lit a candle

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.

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

My sincere thoughts and prayers are with you Kimmy and your family. ❤️

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

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

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

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.

she was one of my favorite friends, it hurts to see her leave so soon from this world.

My heart and prayers are with you during this heartbreaking time. Sending you love .

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.

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.

Ill miss u isabelle mi amiga. You were the bestest freind ive ever had.

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.

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

In memory of Isabella Katherine Franzen, Terri Giambalvo lit a candle

In memory of Isabella Katherine Franzen, Sonya Watson lit a candle

In memory of Isabella Katherine Franzen, Tanya Rathbun lit a candle

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.

So sorry for your loss thoughts and prayers

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.

Patrick, Karen and I are sorry for your loss. We will keep you in our prayers

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.

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

In memory of Isabella Katherine Franzen, Jean and Peter Mathern and family lit a candle

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

I am so sorry to hear about your loss. Sending love, hugs and prayers to you and your family.

Sending y’all deepest condolences, love & prayers! Love y’all

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

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.

Deepest Sympathies.

In memory of Isabella Katherine Franzen, John & Lora Harrison lit a candle

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.

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

In memory of Isabella Katherine Franzen, Niskua Watson lit a candle

Santa Jaws.
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Shine on in Heaven.

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. 💜

In memory of Isabella Katherine Franzen, Susan Murphy lit a candle

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

My heart goes out to your family in this devastating time. She was such a beautiful girl

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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Srebrenka and I are sorry for the death of Isabella.

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. ❤️❤️❤️

Kim I am so sorry for your loss. Sending positive energy to you and your family.

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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Kimmy, Patrick and family...we are so incredibly sorry for your loss. All of our love. Shari, Lily & Ava Lancaster

Isabella's warm smile, kindness, art and beauty will never be forgotten.

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.

Isabella had such a beautiful soul and I feel lucky to have spent time with her.

Oh, Kimmy, I am so very sorry. Isabella was a beautiful child and will be forever missed. Sending you love and light ❤️

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.