Fran and I have known each other since the early 1970’s through mutual friends, but it was the 1990’s when I returned to Florida that we began what was to become a deep friendship of sisterhood.  I could tell you many hilarious stories of our adventures especially the ones to Europe and the Caribbean, but the most enduring memory of Fran will be her quiet kindness and her fearlessness.

Not a day went by that Fran didn’t perform acts of kindness, no matter how big or how small for the large extended community she created in her life. She remembered small details about so many people; she stopped by to visit elderly friends and family members of friends; she seemed to remember everyone’s birthday; she insistently introduced people she met who she felt would have common interest; she stopped by the humane society to walk dogs; she volunteered for political campaigns, walk/run events, healthcare events, and museums; she cared for each of her patients as if they were her own family members.

Fran was kind, Fran was caring, and Fran honored the best in each person she met without judgment or discrimination.  

I am an original member and instigator of the Friends of Fran Club.

Cynthia Rice (Cindy) –Clearwater Florida

Formerly from the US Virgin Islands