Paula Michelle Franklin, beloved mother, artist, and friend, passed away on October 7, 2025 at the age of 72.

Born on May 30, 1953 in London England, she grew up as a proud military child, moving from place to place and gaining a lifelong sense of resilience and adaptability. Those early experiences shaped her spirit and her ability to find beauty and connection wherever she went. She had a passion for creativity and worked as a display artist in Jacksonville Florida, bringing storefronts and homes to life with imagination, color, and careful attention to detail. Through her work, she turned ordinary spaces into scenes that invited people to stop, smile, and wonder. She also had a deep love for gardening and was known for her remarkable green thumb. Tending to her plants brought her great joy, and she took pride in watching them grow and flourish. Whether nurturing flowers or caring for her yard, she found peace in the simple beauty of nature and loved sharing that beauty with those around her. Above all else, she was a devoted mother to her two daughters, Chelsea Franklin and Michelle Maylon. She poured her love, guidance, and strength into raising them, and her influence will continue through their lives and the memories they share. She will be remembered for her creativity, and energetic spirit born from a childhood on the move, and the love she gave so freely to those around her.

She is survived by her daughters, Chelsea R. Franklin, Michelle L. Maylon along with her husband Oscar B. Franklin, grandson Beau W. Maylon and sister Pamela M. Peters.

She was preceded in death by parents Harry Nelsen, Marie 'Jose Nelsen and brother Paul Nelsen.

A memorial service will be held on March 28, 2026 at Washington Oaks Gardens State Park.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Alzheimers Association.