Where do I begin. Words are probably not enough, but for everyone out there that knew my mother and maybe to provide a light inside the "ticker" that gave us so much...here's my perspective and a couple highlights. She was objective enough to tell us what she found "to be desired" even if it was after she passed;
- Mornings at 17 Bartlett Ave and 4444 Raphael Drive began with a wake-up call "Good Morning Sunshine". I use this to this day!
- Q: 'Who did you vote for?' A: 'Inquiring minds would love to know'.
- She knew I was unfocused and underachieved at West Point as the Commandant of Cadets sent grades to my parents in the mail. Dad freaked out I am sure and mom... "let him do his thing, it is his life."
-Some of her greatest joys in life: Her children, playing cards (the "Card Shark Sand Bagger"), and her devotion to god.
-Conversations with her were always a joy. One never felt judged although later in life one always knew "the gears were turning" in Frances's mind.
-Books. There was a diary among several of hundreds of books she had read.
-Blue Nun Wine
-Christmas(s) & Vacations (especially on the Cape with the Ackermans)
-"Happy Heart"
Since I am her son and this takes one to deeper places, I would be remiss if I did not express both what I loved and what I have learned.
1. I will cherish every moment I had with my parents. Moment in the operative word, be in the moment and devote yourself to those who devote themselves to you.
2. I resolve to maximize every moment I can with my family, siblings, their children and the people who have impacted me or I have done the same to them. Life is too short for anything less.
3. I will continue to honor their memory by doing everything above and more.
Some pictures from her self organized collection to give you a feel what was important to her.
I love you mom.
Fran was the intellectual heartbeat of our family gatherings. I always admired how she could weave her extensive reading into our daily lives, ensuring she always had something to offer in every conversation we shared.
Beyond her sharp mind, it was her integrity that defined her. She lived with a sense of purpose and a commitment to her principles that was truly inspiring. I feel incredibly fortunate to have had her as a mother-in-law and a role model.
I am missing her every day . . . catching myself asking what would Fran have said?
To my lifelong pen pal and favorite advisor: Thank you for every book recommendation, every piece of wisdom, and every letter. Your love for travel and your endless curiosity helped to shape the way I see the world. Thank you, Grams, for teaching me to keep asking questions. I’m carrying your spirit of exploration with me, always.
Q: How did you meet Frances?
A: I met Frances in a class at the YMCA and she started talking about her garden at the community center. After receiving information from her, my husband and I started a garden at the same place. Since our gardens were near each other, we often shared tips on our garden.
I also spoke to Frances before or after classes at the YMCA, mostly about travel and health.
I met Fran while volunteering at our library book store. We also attended the library book club and saw each other at Body Balance classes at the YMCA. I always enjoyed seeing her at the Y so we could commiserate on how tough the class was. At the library we would discuss our impressions of whatever book we had been reading. She always had a smile on her face. I miss seeing her.
Dear Jeanne, Mary Claire, and Tony,
I was sorry to read about your mother's passing. She was such a sweet, kind, and compassionate woman. While I haven't seen her in years, I remember her fondly. May you all have peace knowing that she lived a full life. Kindly - Mary
Grams, I will forever and always cherish our memories made together. You were a joy to be around and made life so fun. My favorite memory is traveling around the islands of Greece with you and watching you live life to the fullest.
We know Grams/Mom/Fran touched many lives. If you have any photos from over the years—especially ones we may not have seen—please consider uploading them here.
