Jennie Franklin

Jennie Marie Franklin, affectionately known as Mattie or Matteo, passed away peacefully on March 4, 2026, at the age of 86 in Colorado Springs, Colorado, at the home of her niece, Judy “Bunny” Mattie-Brackel, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on January 18, 1940, in a small house west of Trinidad, Colorado, in the coal mining town of Segundo, Jennie entered the world at home near what is now Ringo’s Trading Post. She was proud of her roots as a coal miner’s daughter and carried that heritage with her throughout her life.

Jennie lost her mother at a young age when she died giving birth to her twin brothers. She was lovingly raised by her grandmother, Guiditta Gasperetti, and through her care, Jennie embraced her Italian heritage, traditions, and family values. A gifted student, she graduated from high school at just 16 after skipping several grades. She began her career at Trinidad National Bank immediately after graduation and, through intelligence, hard work, and determination, rose to become Vice President, a role she held with pride as a woman in her time.

Jennie’s life was defined by her deep devotion to family. She is survived by her niece Judy “Bunny” Mattie-Brackel and husband Bradley Brackel, who cared for her over the past nine years, as well as her grandnieces Siteris Mattie-Stanley and Caralissa Stanley and Caralissa’s partner Courtney Currington, her nephew Anthony Mattie, and Felicia Jones, who was like a daughter to her. She is also survived by her half-brothers. She was preceded in death by her grandparents and parents, her beloved husband Tony Franklin, her sisters Frances Mattie and Shirley Dussart, and her twin brothers Albert and Arthur.

Known for her vibrant personality, warm heart, and selflessness, Jennie made everyone feel welcome and cherished. She was a devoted supporter of La Burla Bee, the entertainment venue owned by her niece, where she greeted guests with joy and cheered with unmatched enthusiasm. A lifelong Denver Broncos fan who also loved the Mighty Miners, she treasured family trips to Walt Disney World and memories of weekend dances filled with classic country music. Raised in the Catholic faith, Jennie lived with kindness, compassion, and unwavering support for those she loved. Her warmth, wisdom, and genuine delight in others’ successes will remain in the hearts of all who knew her. In keeping with her favorite color, yellow, those who gathered to honor her were encouraged to wear it.