FRANKLIN, Lois Maechler Stevens, 87, a long-time resident of the Tampa area, died June 23, 2015. She passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by loved ones and under the compassionate care of Hospice. Born in 1927 in St. Louis, MO, Lois was the youngest of six daughters born to Catherine and Joseph Maechler. She was a graduate of Ritenour High School where she learned the skills to become a Bookkeeper for the local Golf and Country Club. She gladly started a new career as a wife and mother when she married Harmon Stevens from Trenton, Florida (whom she met during a winter vacation at John’s Pass, Florida). They were married in July of 1949 and proceeded to have five children and they all dearly loved family life. Harmon died unexpectedly of a heart attack June 28, 1962 when Lois was only 34 years old. In order to support her children, she began to work again primarily as a bookkeeper for doctors. She retired in 1976 when she married the second love of her life, Warren Franklin. Lois and Warren enjoyed many years together traveling several months throughout the year in their motor home. Some of their greatest adventures included trips from coast to coast as well as to Alaska, Canada and Mexico. Lois was widowed again when Warren passed away March 22, 1992. She continued to keep busy serving as the family “matriarch” hosting many family gatherings (including Friday night game night). She served as a Volunteer at Catholic Charities Pregnancy Plus Medical helping with their books until her eyesight failed. She also was always “there” for family members and friends in need. She was a joy to those who crossed her path and was known for her wry humor and spunk. She was a special blessing to her daughter, Cindy Tozier with whom she lived the last ten years of her life. Lois was preceded in death by spouse, Harmon Stevens; son, Joseph Stevens; daughter-in-law, Pam Stevens and spouse, Warren Franklin. She is survived by her children, Cathy (Ed) Turgeon; Cindy Stevens Tozier; John (Linda) Stevens and James (Dorothy) Stevens. She is also survived by seven grandchildren, as well as, numerous great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. A funeral Mass will be conducted 2 p.m. Monday, June 29, 2015 at Most Holy Redeemer Catholic Church (behind the school at 302 East Linebaugh, Tampa, 33612). The family will receive friends beginning at 1:30 p.m. with a brief interment in Garden of Memories Cemetery. A reception will be held back at Most Holy Redeemer’s Parish Center. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Most Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, 10110 North Central Avenue, Tampa, Florida 33612 or Lifepath Hospice, 11150 N 53rd St, Temple Terrace, FL 33617.