Emilie Jo Franke, age 3, a cherished child of God, passed away peacefully on the evening of Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at Riley Children’s Hospital, Indianapolis, with her loving parents by her side.

Emmi Jo was baptized in Christ on May 21, 2023, at St. John’s Lutheran Church, Sauers, where she faithfully attended church with her family. She attended Central Christian Church Daycare Ministry, where she was adored so much by her friends and teachers.

Emmi Jo Franke loved all things magical and full of childhood wonder. A perfect mix of wild child and girly girl, she adored princesses, baby dolls, dressing up, and pretending to be a cowgirl. Whether she was caring for her baby dolls, twirling in her favorite princess dress, adventuring in her cowboy boots, or running barefoot outside picking flowers, Emmi lived each day with endless joy and imagination. She loved stickers, coloring pictures, singing songs, and dancing around with a smile that could light up any room.

Her laughter and vibrant spirit brought happiness wherever she went. Emmi never met a stranger and had a special way of making everyone around her feel loved. She treasured every moment spent with her siblings — playing, laughing, and simply being together — and they loved their sweet sister with all their hearts.

God’s precious child carried a smile that could brighten any room, a heart overflowing with love, and hugs that brought comfort to all who knew her. Though her time on earth was far too short, Emmi Jo now rests peacefully in the arms of Jesus. The joy she shared so freely and the love she gave so effortlessly will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know and love her.

Born on May 6, 2023, in Columbus, Emmi Jo was the beloved daughter of Alexander and Heather (Wessel) Franke, who survive in Seymour.

Emmi Jo is also survived by her two brothers and one sister, who loved her dearly: William Frederick Franke, George Lloyd Franke, and Elta Jean Franke; Mamaw and Papaw: Loren and Lorna Wessel; Mimi and Poppy: Joe and Sandy Franke; paternal great-grandfather, Lloyd Meyer; aunts and uncles: Jessica and Nathaniel Gettelfinger, Emma and Nick Imhoff, and Anne and Elijah Beard; cousins: Lane Gettelfinger, Jude Gettelfinger, Nora Gettelfinger, Meyer Imhoff, Evelyn Imhoff, and August Beard; and countless friends.

Emmi Jo was preceded in death by maternal great-grandparents: Kenneth and Elta Lambring and Debron and Juanita Wessel; paternal great-grandparents, Herman and Irma Franke; and paternal great-grandmother, Jean Meyer.

Funeral services for Emilie Jo Franke will be conducted at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at St. John’s Lutheran Church, Sauers, with Pastor Craig Muhlbach officiating. Friends may call from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Friday, May 22, 2026, at St. John’s Lutheran Church, Sauers, and from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at John’s Lutheran Church, Sauers.

Interment will follow at St. John’s Lutheran Church, Sauers Cemetery.

Memorials may be given to St. John’s Lutheran Church, Sauers, or Central Christian Church Daycare Ministry.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the caring staff at Spurgeon Funeral Home, Inc.

Online memories and condolences may be given at www.spurgeonfh.com