Wendy Diane Owens-Franklin, age 47, passed away on Sunday, September 15, 2024.

Wendy was preceded in death by her father, Wyman Owens; sister, Sandy Owens; and grandparents, Ralph and JoAnn Cox. She is survived by her children, Austen Burton and Kaitlyn Steel; nephew, Ethan Owens; and aunt, Beatrice Stewart; as well as many other extended family members and beloved friends.

A memorial service for Wendy will be held at Messmer Goodwin Funeral Home on Friday, September 20, beginning at 2:00. If you wish to send flowers for Wendy's service, please send potted plants or small floral arrangements that the family can take home with them to enjoy, as there will not be a grave to cover with traditional floral stand arrangements.

Written by Wendy's mother, Kathy Owens:

Wendy was a happy baby and a wonderful child. She loved school, playing ball and cheering. Then one day, at just 18 years old, drugs entered her life. Wendy died a heroin addict. She was using the night that she fell, alone in a bathroom. After the fall, she never talked or moved on her own again. Drugs killed Wendy. As a result of the severe head injury she incurred from the fall, her brain was bleeding heavily and  brain surgery was performed in an attempt to save her life. Despite the doctors' best efforts, if Wendy had survived she never would have been the same. She never would have walked or talked again, and would have remained in a vegetative state. Drugs took Wendy's life from her, but her story did not have to end this way. Anyone who suffers from drug addiction, please seek help. Your story does not have to end the way Wendy's did. You have control of how your story is written, and the ability to create a happy ending for your life. May God bless each and every one of you. Please don't remember only the bad things when Wendy comes to your mind. Remember the good times and all the loved that she shared. Wendy had so much good still in her heart. And please remember me in your prayers. I've lost both of my children, and will grieve forever until I am with them again.