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Frances Houlihan Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Frances Houlihan
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Patrick
October 17, 2023
thinking of you, Mom
Patrick
April 22, 2023
Happy Birthday Mom
I think of you everyday
I miss my Barbara
I am so lost and alone
Patrick
October 16, 2022
I miss you so much Mom.
I think of you every day.
In memory of my beautiful Barbara.
Never forget.
Kathy
October 13, 2022
Mom, it's been 14 years without you. I need you now more than I ever have. I am lost and lonely and sad. I have nowhere to turn except to your pictures. I miss you so much. I need you so much. Please keep an eye on little Baby Addison. You would have loved her so. And your would be so proud of Ashleigh. She is so strong. She gets her strength from you. Please watch over all of us as we get older and become more needy and frail. I love you always.
Patrick
July 24, 2022
Dear Mom
My beautiful Barbara is gone
Please find her
Please help her
Tell her that I love her
Please tell her I am sorry
Patrick M. Houlihan
October 17, 2021
waves of sadness...
waves of regret ...
I miss you Mom ...
til the end of time ...
Chrissie
October 13, 2021
Hi Gramma I have missed you in my life so much. I talk to God about you and my family and hope and pray that the love I have is enough. Please look over me in my upcoming surgery. I'm sorry I don't get to visit you but you know that hardship. I always am thinking of you. Seeing your smiling face in pictures brings about so many feelings. I'm glad you were my Gramma...and it feels like our family's
guardian angel. I hope you and Grampa are holding tightly to beautiful baby Addison. I love you so much
Mary Houlihan
May 14, 2021
I really miss you Mom. I have so much stuff going on in my life that I just need to tell you about. The COPD is bad, but then I fell and fractured my ankle, and have compression fractures in my back. I don't even know what those are! Debbi is having dizzy spells, but her doctor doesn't believe her when she tells him. I don't know what to do-everything hurts-even breathing. I wish you were here. I miss you so much.
Kathleen Griffin
October 17, 2020
12 years Mom....how can that be? Missing you as always, Kathy
May 10, 2020
Another Mother's Day without you. Miss you every day.
September 7, 2018
Thinking of you today and always. I miss you so much Gramma
September 7, 2018
Thinking of you Gramma. I miss you so much
February 27, 2018
I don't know how I've made it this far. I wish you were here to make it better. i miss you so much. Love always.
November 18, 2016
I hope he found his way to you. Now you're both gone, and I feel so alone.
April 4, 2015
Love you, Mom. Happy Easter.
April 10, 2014
Still miss you every day.
August 11, 2013
This still sucks. Sorry, I know you hate that word.
April 27, 2013
It hasn't gotten easier...just longer without you to talk to. m
October 29, 2012
four years...seems like yesterday, feels like a lifetime. miss you...
October 17, 2010
Sis - It's hard to believe that it has been 2 years since you left us. I miss you very much and think of you often.
Bob
September 21, 2010
Still missing you...
September 19, 2010
September 19, 2010
August 20, 2010
As always...thinking of you
July 5, 2010
thinking of you, ma...this big old house just isn't the same without you; the lifeblood has been drawn away..all the happiness, all the joy has been sucked out of this house, just a house now, no longer a home...miss you so so much!
June 30, 2010
Thinking of you...yesterday, today--always!
May 8, 2010
A Mother's love's a blessing
No matter where you roam
Keep her wihile she's living
You'll miss her when she's gone.
Love her as in childhood
Though feeble, old and gray
For you'll never miss a mother's love
Til she's buried beneath the clay.
So true, Mom, so true.
Happy Mother's Day with all my love
April 23, 2010
You may not think the world needed you, but it did.
You were unique, like no one that has ever been before or will come after.
No one can take your place for it was yours alone to fill.
No one can speak with your voice, say your piece, smile your smile, or shine your light.
Who knows how many will lose their way as they try to pass by your empty place in the darkness.
April 22, 2010
Happy Birthday Mom. I love you and miss you every day.
April 22, 2010
Happy Birthday Mom...can't begin to explain how much I miss you...
j
April 4, 2010
Happy Easter in Heaven Mom! We sure miss you down here. It is a beautiful Easter Sunday and I am thinking of you and missing you so very much.
March 17, 2010
I miss you gramma.. so, so much.
March 16, 2010
They say memories are golden...well maybe that is true.
But I never wanted memories; I only wanted you.
A million times I needed you, a million times I cried.
If love alone could have saved you, you never would have died.
In life I loved you dearly... In death I love you still.
In my heart you hold a place... no one could ever fill.
If tears could build a stairway and heartache made a lane,
I'd walk the path to heaven and bring you back again.
Our family chain is broken, and nothing seems the same.
But as God calls us one by one, the chain will link again.
December 23, 2009
Miss you so much, Mom. Merry Christmas with all my love.
December 10, 2009
Thought it might be a little easier this Christmas...I am so very very wrong. It still hurts and it still takes my breath away when I think of you. Missing you so much.
Love you,
j
October 26, 2009
Death leaves a heartache
Time cannot heal
Love leaves a memory
No one can steal.
You were an angel here on earth
And now an angel up above
And no matter where you are
I hope you always feel my love.
I just want you to know
I love you more than ever
When others forget
I will always remember.
October 22, 2009
Ladybugs everywhere!
College campus, lunch table at work, here at the house and all over Melanie's little "bug".
I know you're dropping in to check up on all of us. Makes me smile and think of you everytime I see one.
I love you.
October 16, 2009
Do not cry for me.
I am in a place of beauty, beyond what your mind can dream.
The Lord has brought me here to do so many other things.
Do not cry for me.
For there are no tears in heaven, only happiness and joy.
Time is of no matter here.
I am at peace all day and night.
One day the Lord will come for you, and you too will see the light.
Do not cry for me.
The Lord has called upon me to do His will this day.
Don't dwell on how it happened.
It was my given way.
Do not cry for me.
For there are no mistakes in heaven,
I was specially picked to go.
Don't hurry life to get to me,
you must walk your given road.
Do not cry for me.
Remember all the laughter;
do not get stuck in hurt and pain.
If you ever feel you need me,
just call out my name.
I will be there in spirit, an Angel from above.
I will ease you in your time of need, and you will feel my warmth and love.
September 20, 2009
Mom,
Hard to believe it was a year ago today that we went out for a "girl's day" to Nahant and the Tides Restaurant...your last time out for some fun, relaxation and peace. Trust me, it's a memory I'll hold onto for my lifetime. Just some alone time with you before our world came crashing in.
I remember you so peaceful, with the sun on your face and the wind in your hair, taking in all the sights and sounds of a place so dear to your heart.
You had so much to tell me, so many loving things to say about each of my kids and Joe. And, of course, making sure I would wish my "handsome young man" a Happy Birthday when I got home.
Hard to believe that this year that young man is at Marine boot camp celebrating his 18th birthday. I pray each day that you'll look after him, as well as, my girls...all of them.
I look for signs from you constantly, but know you are at my side always.
I love you,
j
September 18, 2009
September 18, 2009
September 18, 2009
September 18, 2009
September 16, 2009
Grandma,
I miss you and love you so much! Think about you every day. Wish you were here to meet and hold Olivia. At times she looks like you and has Grandpa's hair color (I know you had something to do with that).
We love you!!
September 10, 2009
September 9, 2009
August 18, 2009
Dear ma...yesterday, on your 10 month anniversary, your grandson Eric was sworn in to the United States Marine Corps, and was sent off to boot camp. This was a bittersweet moment for all of us, especially Jeannie, and I know that you would have liked to see him off. I ask that you, with the help of Almighty God, keep watch over this brave young man, as he passes throughout this most honorable and courageous journey he has chosen. I know you will, as you always have with all of us. We love you, and we miss you so very much.
August 6, 2009
I could smell your perfume at work last night...right over my left shoulder. No one else was near me and I knew right away it was you. It's helps to know you are right here with me...always. I continue to need you...always.
I love you...always.
j
July 3, 2009
July 3, 2009
Hi Sis,
I am on a computer so you know that I am not at home. I am up in Susanville spending a few days with Linda. I just finished reading all the entries in your guest book. You have touched so many lives and loved by so many.
I miss you so much and think of you every day. There are so many times that I want to go to the phone and call you so we can have one of our sisterly talks. You were always there for me and helped me through alot of my worrisome times. You were such a strong person. I wish I could have been more like you. I was so happy to be able to spend the last few days in the hospital with you. They said you knew I was there and that you could hear me. I hope so. Your family did a wonderful job, you would be so proud of them, I was. It is hard being here without you but I know you are in a better place and not suffering any more. I love you very much and you are always in my heart. Say hi to Mom and Dad for me.
Love, Your Sister
Jeannie
June 9, 2009
I need your help Mom...
Please..
j
Deb
June 4, 2009
Dear Fran,
I miss you so much. I keep in touch with Red and I think it helps for him to be able to talk because I know it sure helps me just to hear him talk about his great memories of you. The pictures of beautifiul baby Olivia reminded me so much of you. I pray she has your wisdom as well. For so much of my life when things got tough you were always my go to person and you always knew just what to say to set me straight and make me feel better, like my mom should have done. Thank you for letting me share so much special time with you those last few weeks and I'm sorry I could not fill that one wish, I tried.
Love you and miss you.
Deb
Bob
May 17, 2009
Hi, Sis. It's 7 months since you've been gone. How we all miss you so.
Sean starts in the Police Academy tomorrow. He has always wanted to be a police officer. It will be a grueling 6 month training period; his graduation date is Nov. 13.
Ryan has just finished EMT School and has been accepted into the Fire Fighters Academy; he starts in September. His graduation date will be Nov. 20.
Along with Mom and Dad, please watch over these two special young men as they start on their very dangerous and selfless careers.
Sally says "HI"!
May 10, 2009
Mother's Day and your 57th Wedding Anniversary...
You should be here to celebrate both.
It's bittersweet for me..missing you and loving the joy Olivia has brought this family.
There's not a day goes by that I don't think of you.
I love you..
j
Neil MacNevin
April 27, 2009
After keeping up with Frannie's guest book these past months, I just have to say how lucky she was and is to have such a caring and wonderful family. Frances was blessed. She was, by the way, my very first date (1945), Western Junior High School. We met in snare drum class in 8th grade. Francis and I Met at a HS reunion several years ago, and had a great time laughing about those days. She will always be remembered for the wonderful person she was.
April 26, 2009
six months have now passed, yet the pain of losing you remains fresh. i am in awe of the life you lived, and the tasks that were upon you, having realized these same tasks myself. i cannot imagine how you ever had the stamina to manage it all. God bless you ma, for you are indeed a saint! i miss you and think of you every day, and i know you hear me when i ask for your guidance...i love you forever
April 22, 2009
Today is your birthday...the sun is out and the day is beautiful..just like you. I only wish you were here to celebrate with.
Love you always,
j
April 22, 2009
Happy Birthday, Mom. I love you and miss you more and more every day.
April 17, 2009
Six months...
Still hurts like hell. Not sure if it'll ever get better.
Miss you so, so much.
j
April 12, 2009
Someone once told me that God has you in his keeping but I'll always have you in my heart.
That's where you are, that's where you'll stay...Forever in my heart.
Happy Easter, Mom. All my love, always.
j
March 31, 2009
Mom..
Thank you for helping us get through yesterday.
Olivia Jeanne Frances is absolutely beautiful. I see you in faces she makes. She looks like you when you would wake from your nap without your glasses and try to figure out just who you were looking at.
You are so, so missed.
j
March 29, 2009
March 29, 2009
March 29, 2009
March 29, 2009
March 29, 2009
March 29, 2009
March 29, 2009
March 28, 2009
March 17, 2009
Happy St. Patrick's Day, Mom!
Dad was up for the weekend and brought along some tapes of Irish music he had made for Wally years ago. Patsy had given them back to him a few months ago.
As we were listening to the music, we could hear you, Dad, Patsy and Wally all talking at one time or another. You and Patsy are playing Scrabble!!
It was wonderful to hear your voice again. As we ate dinner and listened to the music and the conversations you were having, it felt like you were right there with us.
Thank you for that. It was just what I needed. I love you.
j
March 9, 2009
hi mums..since i know you're up there chatting away with Himself, could you ask Him to please stop this snowy nonsense and get on with the springtime...you can do it! we miss you so much...xoxoxo
February 16, 2009
Mom..
I know your spirit was with us yesterday as we celebrated at Melanie's baby shower, but I wish you were with us physically as well.
I miss you so much. I need you so much. Help me get through this and all the other challanges that will be facing us in these coming months.
I need to draw from your strength. You always believed in me-even if I didn't believe in myself. I need you now, more then ever, to help me be the best grandmother I can be. I want to have the wonderful experience and relationship with my granddaughter as you did with my children. Help me find that strength.
I love you and miss you forever.
j
February 2, 2009
God saw you getting tired,
and a cure was not to be.
So He put His arms around you
and He whispered "Come to me".
With tearful eyes we watched you,
and saw you fade away.
And though we loved you dearly
we could not make you stay.
A golden heart stopped beating,
hard working hands now rest.
God broke our hearts, to prove to us,
that He only takes the best.
January 20, 2009
In tears we watched you sinking,
we watched you fade away.
And though our hearts were breaking,
we knew you could not stay.
You left behind some aching hearts,
that loved you most sincere.
We never shall and never will
forget you, Mother dear.
January 3, 2009
i went to see you on new years day, and at first i could not find you. everything was snow covered, and in the bitter cold i started to panic, not wanting to leave without speaking to you. as you know, i did find you, and spent a few precious moments with you, alone in the cold, with the tears freezing on my face. i just wanted to hug you, and tell you that i love you...
patty logan shafer
December 26, 2008
merry christmas aunt frances mary. I love you and miss you and chatting with you on the phone alot. you say hhi to dad for me to. tell dad that my sister linda bought all of us the same candy that dad always got us for christmas. chocolate covered cherry candys. i never did like them at all. say hi to dad for us. love you always aunt fraqnces mary. love patty logan shafer
December 25, 2008
Jeannie
December 25, 2008
Merry Christmas, Mom...
I love you always and miss you more..
Melanie LaVigne
December 23, 2008
Hi Gramma,
I feel like this is the only way to let my feelings out because I have a hard time talking to people about it. It’s been over two months now since you’ve been gone and it still feels like a dream. I miss you terribly and words can not explain how I really feel. I walk around as if nothing is bothering me but deep down I’m hurting….we all are.
We all thought last month would be tough without you for Thanksgiving but with Christmas two days away it’s just as hard if not harder. None of us know what to do; if we go to your house or not.
I can’t speak for my other cousins but we three kids don’t know how to help mom get through this. Mom is miserable and I know that’s not your fault. We know you are with us every day and night. But it’s not enough.
Gramma, I really wish you could be here come March when the baby is born. I only have 13 weeks left till my due date. Time is going by fast. Everything is going well though. I know you’re taking care of her before I get to meet her but I hate it that when she comes into this world you won’t ever get to hold her, kiss her or love her as much as you loved all of us. She is definitely going to know about her Great-Gramma and how wonderful of a person she was.
Seven weeks was too soon for you to leave us, and two months is way too long to go without talking and seeing you.
I love you, Gramma!!
Lee
December 22, 2008
No one knows what to do & no one can help.
Things are a mess.
Everyone is in pain.
It's just not getting easier like everyone said it would.
Help.
Jeannie
November 30, 2008
Oh Mom...
I don't know where to begin..I miss you so, so much. Thanksgiving was more then just a day for us. It was our "special" time together. We'd spend from Wednesday afternoon until Monday morning together. Whether we were playing cards or watching TV (with the volume up so loud for Dad to hear) or going shopping to check out the sales-we were together. But not this year, not anymore and I can't bear it. My heart aches. I've never felt this kind of pain. Not even when I lost the babies. And I don't know what to do. I can't breathe, I can't sleep and I can't call or talk to you like I need to.
I tried to find a turkey as big as the ones you would bring for dinner. In doing so, I ended up with three of them because they just weren't big enough. I guess we'll be eating turkey for awhile!
Dad came up Wednesday night. He remember all his pills and packed all the right stuff to bring. He did great. You'd have been so proud of him. I was. I truly needed him and he was there for me. I love him more then he knows and I realize how huge it was for him to come up.
Somehow we got through dinner. Mary and I attempted and somehow succeeded in making creamed onions. You must have been laughing at us. We know you were definately helping us. I'm sorry for all those times I never fully paid attention.
I miss you Mom and I need you. Please help me find the strength to get through this because I'm failing horribly. I thought I'd be ok and I know I told you I would be, but I'm not. I'm not ok. This is not ok.
I love you,
Always,
Jeannie
Kathy
November 30, 2008
Hi Mom,
Thanksgiving was such a hard day to get through. You were in my thoughts every minute while I was trying to get my dinner ready. I still can't believe you are gone. My heart is raw with pain. I am trying so hard to be strong..to hold it everyone together like you asked me to..but I am failing. Each time I talk to somebody it is so difficult to control my shaky voice. I want to be strong for you, Mom, I want to be your right arm for you. I need your help. I wish I could hear your voice. I cannot imagine the rest of my life without you in it. I know you are with me in spirit, but like Alysha, I miss your face, your voice, your smell. I want to call you when I have stuff to tell you. I still need you so.
I hope you can hear me when I talk to you. I hope you can hear my prayers. I love you, Mom.
Alysha LaVigne
November 25, 2008
Hi.
There is SO much to say but not enough time, or room, to say it.
I miss you Gramma. More than anyone could ever imagine. I really didn't know what I had with you in my life until you left it.
I visited you as much as I possibly could when you were in the hospital. I wanted to stay there forever, just to be there. Mom and dad wouldn’t let me. I don’t understand where this came from Gramma. I don’t see why you, someone so full of life, and so amazing had to leave. I don’t see how you, compared to my aunt that was also in the hospital the same time you were, living off of life support, got a second chance when she doesn’t even realize what she has and how lucky she is. This is the part that makes me angry. I don’t like it. It’s not who I am, you know that. I just don’t understand why. You were put through so much pain that you didn’t deserve. You were a fighter, though, and you stuck it out as long as you could. Towards the end of all this, mom and I bought a CD player and played Celtic Thunder in your room. I can’t listen to them and not think of you. It saddens me beyond words and I just cry... Yeah I cry. Go figure eh? The strong one...
This first semester at school has been so bad. I want to blame you, but I can't. I can thank you though, because your voice in the back of my head telling me that I can do it and that I'm a "strong and smart girl" is the ONLY thing that is keeping me from failing epically. I know if I don’t do well then I would disappoint you... I don’t want to do that.
Your services were beautiful. You touched so many people; something I plan to do with my life. You’d be so proud of Grampa. He kept it together so well. We all expected a lot worse. You had a bagpiper. He was fantastic, blew me away and brought tears to my eyes when I heard him from the parking lot. I put together your collages and I read at your funeral. I was terrible. I know that if you were still here you would have corrected me in what I did wrong. I probably would have just laughed, shaken it off and said “Okay Gramma.” I wish I didn’t do those things. I wish I appreciated them more.
I don’t know how things are ever going to be the same around here. Thanksgiving is two days away and everyone is freaking out. I have to keep my cool knowing that you won’t be there to yell at us when we pick the skin off the turkey, or to make your infamous creamed onions or stuffing that Dad seems to be the only to eat and enjoy. Grampa is coming up for the weekend. I am so happy that he is. I didn’t want him sitting at home by himself. I am so scared of losing him, Gramma. We all are. I don’t even want to think about Christmas. It’s going to be one big sob fest.. with alcohol. It’s never ever going to be the same.
I’m scared I will forget you. Forget your smell, voice, laugh, and hugs; or your words of wisdom and demands. When Grampa goes, we all know he will soon, I’m scared I will forget him as well and with both of you out of my life, I’m going to go crazy. My heart will have a bigger hole and my life will feel empty. I can tell you that you are one of my idols. You and Grampa are the most idealistic love story and I have every intention of finding a man as crazy about me as he was about you. You were the most amazing and honorable woman I know. You were strong, loving, caring, smart, and beautiful. It is my goal in life to become a woman just like you. Luckily, I’m mom’s daughter, so the genes are already lined up.
I feel like there is more to say. But I can’t write it down. I still have a lot of your Christmas cards, birthday cards, and the email you sent after my prom. I look at it at least once a week. I miss you so much Gramma and this Irish music is killing me. You were extraordinary and I don’t want to forget you.
I love you,
Alysha.
Kathy
November 17, 2008
To all of us...from Mom:
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Arti & Betty Mark
November 5, 2008
Dear "Red" OK--here goes--I haven't been able to write - will try today. I know there is a saying you make alot of acquaintenances in life, but few can be called "friends" -Friend doesn't even begin to say how Arti & I felt about Fran - it seems like only yesterday that we were over at Dotti's camper celebrating Mary's birthday - that was the first time we really met her - guess she was one of the wonderful people that pulls at a person's heart and welcomes you in as a true friend---we have so many wonderful memories - right now they still make me sad & I cry, but the last thing she said to me when I said goodbye in the hospital "don't you dare cry" & if sbe is watching me I know she's giving me "Heck" cause I can't help tears when I think of her. Guess we need to say "thanks" to you for letting us in and becoming friends too, otherwise, she might have quit on the camping thing but low and beholf you did become a 'HAPPY CAMPER' after all, and now we have the pleasure of knowing the Houlihan family as well, Mary of course, we knew before Forest Glen, she certainly has her mom's personality for gaining friends, Frank (isn't the grump he wants everyone to think) we love you guys, Pat & Dan, sorry we didn't see you as often, our thoughts with you both also; John we were also connected thru campground, miss that time in our lives, Betty, Jeannie, Cathy - you all have so much of your Mom to give back in life to your friends and family- we are so glad to have had the chance to know you - please stay in touch.
Love and Miss you.
patty logan shafer
November 4, 2008
hi all, hows everyone doing? all of us here at the logan house sure do miss your mom alot. please give every one our love for us all. say hello to uncle red for me to. tell everyone that I send my love to you all. every one here also sends you all our love to. give uncle red a big hug for me to. we miss you alot. {love the} {logans}
Steve McDonough
November 3, 2008
Frank,
my deepest condolences to you and your family for you loss.
Sincerely,
Denyce Neilson
November 2, 2008
Frank,
I am very sorry to hear about your loss. You have my deepest sympathy. Please let me know if there is anything that you need or that I can do for you.
With All My Love,
Denyce
BETTY TOTO
November 2, 2008
MOM I MISS YOU SO MUCH I STILL HAVE SO MUCH TO LEARN FROM YOU ILOVE YOU BETTY
Tom Long
November 1, 2008
Dear Frank,
I was sorry to hear today of your mother's passing. I am honored to have known her by being friends with you. My sincere respect and regards to you and your extended family. So many! I should like to meet some of them. Meanwhile, I'll be happy to see you soon.
Sincerely,
Tom
John and Barbara OBrien
October 31, 2008
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Nancy Masley
October 31, 2008
Frank –
I’m so sorry to hear about your Mother. My sincerest sympathies, thoughts and prayers, are with you and your family. Even though I never had the pleasure of meeting your mother, I do know that she was truly wonderful, as I do remember you talking about her a lot. And – I do think she was definitely an exceptional mother, judging by how she raised you – you’re a terrific, loyal and trusted friend.
Sincerely,
Tara McKenzie
October 29, 2008
To Dan, I am so sorry for your loss of your mother. All my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Tom Griffin
October 27, 2008
During Fran’s final weeks of life I got the opportunity to share with her some very powerful moments. The first occurred when she asked me if I had brought her Communion. I was tongue-tied at first but quickly saw this moment to share the Body of Christ with a sister in faith. A few days later I had the opportunity to pray with her. We prayed for her eight children, her husband and her brothers and sister. I never envisioned myself sharing these sacred moments with her as a son-in-law but that may be one of the ways in which we can remember her – she was full of surprises!
Ar dheis Dé go raibh m'anam (Gaelic for Rest In Peace)
Patricia Hill
October 24, 2008
Gramma,
Seeing you on Monday and Tuesday was so hard, for both Jonathan and myself......I know you would be so proud of him, going right up to your casket, and telling you he loves you. I know I am. We will miss you and love you, and are grateful that now you may rest in peace, with Nannie, in heaven, rather than suffer any more in some hospital room with dozens of eyes watching. You are an amazing grandmother, and great grandmother, not to mention (I'm sure) wife, sister, aunt, and friend. Uncle Pat is right, you were the glue that held this family together, and hopefully knowing that you are watching from above, we will get it together down here for you. I love you and Jonathan does too. And we will always remember you, miss you and smile knowing you're still with us in our hearts.
-Patti
Keri St Laurent
October 23, 2008
Jeannie and Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. God bless you and your family during this difficult time.
Love to you!
Lionel, Keri, and Jocelyn St Laurent
October 23, 2008
Rest easy, Sis; your hard fought battle is done. When we first learned of your cancer, you told me that you would fight it. You were a strong and determined woman and you gave it all you had and more. But God had other plans. Your daughter Jeannie asked me a few weeks ago why the good ones go and the bad ones recover and go on with their lives. I told her I thought that God wanted the good ones close to him and the bad ones far away. I hope that helped her a little. Your absence leaves an ache in my heart that will never go completely away. I miss the sound of your voice and your beautiful smile. The only consolation is knowing that your pain is gone and that you are now with Mom and Dad once again. I told your kids that when they're alone and they feel a poke in their side or a slap on the back of the head, or just a light brush on the cheek, that will be you letting them know you are still around watching over them. Give our love to Mom and Dad; we'll be with you all again in awhile. I love you and miss you dearly. Sally, Colleen and her family, Michelle and her family, and Bob and his family all send their love.
Your loving brother always and forever, Bob
Bill Byers
October 23, 2008
Sis. You were the rock of strength in our family. I will miss you forever.
Continue to look down on us from heaven above. Love always and forever.
Your loving bother Bill
Colleen Frost (Byers)
October 23, 2008
Uncle Red,Kathy, Pat,Frank,Johnny,Mary, Danny,Jeanie and Betty,I loved Aunt Fran very much and will miss her dearly.You are all in my thoughts and prayers and I love you all.
Brenda Messina
October 23, 2008
Jeannie and family, We are so sorry for your loss. We remember her from the family cook outs. She was a very sweet woman. She will be missed by all. You are all in my thoughts and prayers...Call me any time!! Brenda, Bob, Michele & Nicole Messina
Dorothy Bowman
October 22, 2008
We loved our visits from Fran and will truly miss her. We pray that God will keep all her family close at this difficult time and extend our deepest sympathy. We know Fran is in God's hands and smiling down on us even as we write this note. God Bless you all. Dorothy, Roy, Shannon and Donna (Daniel's California family)
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Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
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Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
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What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
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Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
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Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
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The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Frances Houlihan's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
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Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
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How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
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