MELI, FRANCES
MASSEY, 60
Mt. Dora, FL - Frances Massey Meli, 60, of Mt. Dora, FL, passed away unexpectedly at home on Friday, July 26, 2013. She was a former Director of Leisure Services for the city of Longwood, FL, and has lived in Mt. Dora for 24 years. Frances was born in Greenwood, SC. She graduated from Gainesville High School and then the University of Florida in 1975. She belonged to FRPA (Florida Recreation and Parks Association) and served on various leadership committees. Frances loved organic gardening, was a race walker, and completed the Disney marathon not once but twice!
Survivors include her husband Paul Meli of Mt. Dora, sons Matthew (Marie) Baugh of Mt. Dora, David Baugh of Umatilla, grandson Morgan Baugh, and brothers Al (Cathy) Massey of Louisville, GA, and Will (Sue) Massey of Melrose, FL.
Funeral services will be 11:00am Thursday, August 1, at 1st United Methodist Church of Gainesville with visitation one hour prior. Reception will follow at the church, then burial at Forest Meadows East.
Arrangements are under the care of MILAM FUNERAL AND CREMATION SERVICES, 311 South Main Street, Gainesville, FL 32601 (352) 376-5361.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
I had the privilege of working with Fran for over 7 years in Parks and Recreation for the City of Longwood. She hired me many years ago and took me under her wing. I can say with wholehearted conviction that Fran was one of the most humble and caring people that I have ever known throughout my life. She was always a very driven and responsible person who took pride in her work. There was also never a task that was too small for Fran to lend a hand with.
What was most telling about Fran was her devotion and love for her family. She always made the necessary sacrifices for her family and was always there for them. I would say she went above and beyond in reference to certain situations.
She will be someone who is greatly missed and the world is certainly not a better place having been removed of such a wonderful person. I suppose the bright side of it all is that now she's looking down on us from heaven.
My condolences to her family. She was a wonderful human being.
Chris Capizzi
January 2, 2014
I just found out today, Oct.12, and I was so sad for me and her family; however, I know Fran is now walking with the angels. I had such joy playing double tennis with Fran. One of our competitors one time remarked that I got the high balls, and Fran got the low ones. She was such a good soul and a warm and wonderful friend. I am so grateful that I was blessed to spend the time I did with her. Much love and many prayers to you, Paul, and the boys. Cindy & Clay Oliver
October 12, 2013
We have just found out today, 9/10/13 of the death of one of my dearest friend, Fran. Terry and I are in total shock. Even though we did not see each other much over the years from our time together at UF, our friendship was also forever strong. She was in our wedding. I now understand why my messages did not go through to her. Terry and I have all of the family in our thoughts and prayers. Over the years we have known each other, some of my fonest memories are with Fran. My heart aches to know you are not there now. I know you are watching over Terry and me both. You will always be in our hearts.
September 10, 2013
Fran was a great person and you could not have a better friend.Fran will be greatly missed.
Keith Michaels
September 5, 2013
saddened to hear about Fran. I met her but twice when she adopted a kitten from me in Longwood. Such a sweet lady. God bless all the family. I know this is a hard time. She is a wonderful gal and I am sorry for the grief you must undergo, but God loves her and you. Kind regards, Averill Galloway
August 11, 2013
I was lucky enough to be hired by Fran Meli to teach tennis for the City of Longwood almost eight years ago. Fran was the ultimate professional and loved Longwood and wanted the best for its citizens. Always upbeat and positive, Fran will be greatly missed but never forgotten. Bless you, Fran.
Karen Westmark
August 5, 2013
I am remembering all our childhood memories of us cousins visiting back and forth between Ky., Florida and Texas. I have shared so many of those memories with my husband, Chris. France's and I talked about our Mom' s and how much we missed them last November when her Aunt Helen passed away and made plans for a family reunion. I am so sad that we won't get to do that. Al and Will, it is so hard to lose a sibling. My prayers are with you and your families and also to Paul, sons and grandson. Wish I was with you all today. I am on my way back from Ky. To Savannah. My heart and prayers are with you. Martha Frances truly was an Angel. Your Cousin Nell Gafford Alford. Savannah, Ga.
Nell Gafford Alford
August 1, 2013
Fran always had a smile on her face and brought a lot of happiness where she went. May her soul rest in peace. My prayers are with her family during this difficult time.
Giselle Gonzalez
August 1, 2013
Fran was always a joyful and happy person to be around. Her cheerful presence will be greatly missed. My prayers and thoughts are with her family.
Jessica Pugh
August 1, 2013
Fran was a wonderful professional who gave her heart and soul to make life better for the Longwood citizens. She was a faithful and loyal volunteer to the Florida Recreation and Park Association, working tirelessly to raise money for scholarships to help younger professionals. She will be terribly missed. I smile however, thinking of her in heaven with her Mom and Dad. They are probably planning some recreation program for the angels. We'll miss you Fran.
Michelle Park
August 1, 2013
Our deepest sympathy to the family. We really loved Fran and hope her family will find comfort in the positive ways she so well represented. Our thoughts are with you at this difficult time.
Linda and Tom Hall
August 1, 2013
In losing one of our fellow classmates and friend, it is hard to believe that Fran is no longer with us.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Fran's family.
A Classmate gone too soon!
GHS Class of 71 Foundation
August 1, 2013
Frances was such a good friend in high school. My thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends at this difficult time. My you rest in peace with the other angels!
July 31, 2013
Fran was a source of light who brought infectious dedication to parks and recreation. Sending prayers and support to her entire family. Gator nation lost a fantastic alumni but we all know an Angel who is wearing orange and blue.
Kelly Morrow
July 31, 2013
Al, Will and family. I was so sorry to hear of your loss. I have great memories of our family ....camping and sitting around the fire with you and your sister. Our prayers are with you at this time.
Juli Brasington Tedeschi
July 31, 2013
May there be peace and healing for Fran's family while adjusting to life without her. She will be missed.
Dawn Jackson
July 31, 2013
I was very saddened to hear of your sudden loss. May Fran's love, spirit & memory continue to encourage and comfort you during this difficult time. I did not have a chance to know her very long, but she was always so kind and encouraging to me; offering up a smile everytime. She is now an angel walking beside you through every trial and triumph.
Jammie Cantile
July 31, 2013
My prayers, are for your family, Martha Frances... I know our Father in Heaven was there to welcome one of His favorites into glory... you were loved by many... Al, Will... May the peace that passes understanding be yours thru Christ...
Phil Weaver
July 31, 2013
We are saddened to hear of Fran's passing. She was a professional acquaintance who became a friend. Always the professional, Fran had heart and went out of her way to make a new member of the City of Longwood Team feel welcome. She will be missed.
William Gulbrandsen
July 31, 2013
My deepest sympathy to the family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Shannon Keleher
July 31, 2013
Francis was the glue that held our family together especially after her Mother died. She, like her Mom, worried about her family and all her extended family. From all her first cousins in Texas and North Carolina. We love you and will miss your wonderful smile! ronny, bill, suzanne and eddie
July 31, 2013
I am sorry to hear of Fran's passing. God bless her and comfort the family. -
Kathy Decker Kephart
July 31, 2013
Simply put, I enjoyed hearing Fran's message on the city phone when she says that "it all begins in the parks." She was all about children and fitness and I sincerely am saddened by her passing. I love that she entitled me to dream about pickleball coming to our city. May Fran now enjoy the company of her mom in heaven. I will always remember her. Brian Sackett
July 31, 2013
Frannie, I can't tell you how much you are missed already. I will have so many memories of our years together through high school and how you were always there for me throughout the good times and the bad. Give our parents hugs from me when you see them!
Julie Schuneman
July 31, 2013
I had the pleasure of working with Fran in her capacity as Leisure Services Director for the City of Longwood and the thing I remember most about Fran was her level of commitment and dedication to the City of Longwood and it's residents. Always mild mannered, those who knew Fran also knew that regardless of any obstacles she would encounter, she remained passionate for her job and dedicated to improving recreational opportunities for those she served. My sincerest condolences to her loved one's, Fran was a very sweet lady and will be greatly missed.
Sheryl Bower
July 31, 2013
The Florida Recreation and Park Association is saddened by the loss of a friend and professional. Fran's dedication to assuring quality of life for her community will be missed.
July 31, 2013
Fran always had a smile on her face. We loved to share grandson stories. She was very proud of Morgan. Fran you will be missed dearly. Paul, may you, Matthew and David find comfort in knowing she will be your special angel looking down from heaven watching over you always.
Linda Goff
July 31, 2013
My deepest sympathy to the family on your loss.
Tom Smith
July 31, 2013
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