Frances Whitney Obituary

Viewing will be held Wednesday, May 10th, 11:00 a.m. with services at 1:00 p.m., at the L.D.S. Church, 316 A Street, in Bakersfield. Frances Whitney was born in Salt Lake City, Utah, April 22, 1952, to Lorna Call and Lewis Earl Whitney. Their first child, she was followed quickly by Leonard, Jonathan, Anne, and Robert. The young family lived in Arizona; Utah; Colorado; and New Mexico; before settling in Sunnyvale, California. Frances graduated from Brigham Young University with a degree in Comparative Literature. While working in Los Angeles after graduation, she met Roy Richardson. Roy and Frances married in the Los Angeles LDS Temple on August 11, 1978. Their first child, Leonard Dalton, was born in 1979. Daughters Susanna and Rachel followed in 1981 and 1983. While in Los Angeles, the Richardsons made contributions to community and church. In 1987, they moved to Arvin, CA near the Richardson family ranch. Roy became ill and died in May 1992. Frances returned to school and earned a Master's degree in English in 1997. She taught at Chipman JHS, East BHS, and BC, while supporting her children in their many activities. Frances was determined to live to see her children achieve success. She spent her last years in joyful service, despite an ailing body. Her spirit and determination, in the face of difficulties is a legacy cherished by all. Frances was preceded in death by her husband, Roy; her parents, Earl and Lorna; and her father- and mother-in-law, Dalton and Rosalie. She is survived by her son, Leonard and his wife, Sumana; her daughter Susanna and Susanna's husband, John; her daughter Rachel; her brothers Leonard, Jonathan and Robert; her sister, Anne; her sister-in-law Pat; her brothers-in-law Garry and Don; and many nieces and nephews. Frances Whitney April 22, 1952 - May 6, 2006

Published by Bakersfield Californian on May 9, 2006.
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Memories and Condolences
for Frances Whitney

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Franny was a gift from God to our little world. I am a better person for having known her, and I'm a better mom for having her as an example. I miss her, but know I will see her again! May God continue to bless her family.

Janet Mitchell

May 31, 2006

I appreciated Franny's gift for seeing the good and maximizing the fun, no matter what.

She made me think, and she made me laugh.

She taught me a lot about attitude and about forgiveness. I'll miss her.

Allison Blackham

May 19, 2006

My life is better for having known Franny. I'm so grateful my life was touched by such a "real" person.

Marianne Baker

May 15, 2006

I was blessed to have known her. A remarkable woman, talented, kind and always witty. I am richer for her influence.

Michael Ensign

May 14, 2006

I remeber the times we spent together. Having you as friend was a truly wonderful experience. Even though we have lost touch the last few years, I will miss you.

Linda Leary

May 10, 2006

The world is better for Frances having been in it, and poorer now that she has left us.

Sue Chapman

May 10, 2006

I feel most fortunate that our paths crossed, and we were able to walk together for a space of time.

Marlene Bursell

May 9, 2006

Though you are physically gone, your presence will remain with us always, a reminder of what a wonderful friend and "Molly" you were.

Mary (Mel) Gagne

May 9, 2006

Frances was an inspiration to so many people. Her ability to keep going in spite of major health issues was always an inspiration to me. She did more while so ill than most well people do. I will miss her severely, and my thoughts and prayers go out to her family and friends at this difficult time.

Alice Allen

May 9, 2006

I can't believe she's gone. I miss you, Frances.

Sumana Harihareswara

May 9, 2006

We will miss your wit, friendship and courageous example.

Jim and Michele Brooks

May 9, 2006

I will miss Frances' way of inspiring people without even having to make an effort. She is a one of a kind person, and even though she is gone from this life, she will always live on. I look forward to being able to meet her in person someday. (I am going to start working on my grammar now so that I will be ready.) The Mollies miss her already.

Heather Moss

May 9, 2006

We will all miss a great friend.

Mary Newby

May 9, 2006

Dearest, dearest Frances, I shall miss your posts on the Mollies but will remember you always. I'll wear that nightie you made me until it (or I) falls apart. I've planted a garden on my patio in your honour (British spelling kiddo!) Love, Valerie

Valerie Ackroyd

May 9, 2006

Dear Family and Friends of Frances,



She touched my heart as our leader of the beloved "Mollies." Her wit and wisdom will keep me going for years to come. I miss her so much already and I never met her face-to-face. She touched so many lives. Please know that I loved her with all my heart.



Diana Dial Reynolds

Diana Reynolds

May 9, 2006

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