Frances Dennis

Frances W. Dennis VIRGINIA BEACH - Frances W. Dennis, 91, died peacefully early in the morn- ing of April 24, 2010 holding the hands of her daughter and grand- daughter. Frances is survived by her daughters, Kathy Baise, Sue Whitaker and Diane Thompson, their spouses, her sister, Jean Hasten, her grandchildren, Amanda Baise, Jennifer Aronstein, Robin Sampaga, and Roy Whitaker, their spouses, and numerous great- grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Everyone loved Grandma Dennis. Alzheimer's disease claimed her life but not her spirit. She had a life worth living. She understood the value of hard work, as evidenced by her joy in caring for others, creating wonderful gardens, and never thinking any task was too hard to tackle. Her home was cozy and inviting. There was always candy in the candy dish. She grew up in Norfolk as one of six children. At 17 she married the one love of her life, Nelson Dennis. They had 60 years together. Nelson never left her without a goodbye kiss. In 1962, Frances graduated with the first class of nurses at Norfolk General Hospital's School of Practical Nursing. She worked at the hospital and was described by her colleagues as "one of the fastest moving people in the hospital." The center of Frances and Nelson's life was Lynnhaven United Methodist Church in Virginia Beach. Everyone there had tasted her homemade rolls and pound cakes. Special appreciation goes to the staff of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Virginia Beach where Frances and her family were treated with love, respect and dignity. Heartland Hospice helped ease the pain of her last weeks of life. People of different faiths ministered to Frances as she left this world. She was surrounded by love. A memorial service celebrating her life will be held at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 29, at Lynnhaven United Methodist Church, 1033 Little Neck Road, Virginia Beach. Donations in the name of Frances Dennis may be sent to the Alzheimer's Association at 6350 Center Drive, Suite 102, Norfolk, VA 23502-4006.