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BORN
1947
DIED
2025
FUNERAL HOME
Frances Kelly Obituary
Frances W. Kelly — “Heart of Gold”
May 18, 1947 – October 7, 2025
Frances Kelly, 78, of Media, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on October 7, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.
Born on May 18, 1947, to Harry and Wanda Walls in Delaware County, PA. Franni was the heart of every room — the welcoming committee wherever she went. She had more friends than one could ever count and was truly loved by everyone. Her kindness touched every person she met.
Franni married the love of her life, Jim Kelly, on October 21, 1967, and together they built a beautiful life filled with laughter and memories. They raised two wonderful children, Kimberly and James, and Frances found her greatest joy in being “Marmi” to her beloved grandchildren, Gianna and Jake DiFelice. She also adored her loving son-in-law, Tommy DiFelice, and her caring daughter-in-law, Shirley Viteri.
Franni was the secretary of Rose Tree Elementary School from 1985 until her retirement in 2013. She was a cherished part of the community at Rose Tree. Everyone who entered the school office remembers her beautiful smile, her colorful nails, and the warmth she brought everywhere.
In retirement, Franni loved spending time on the phone with friends, driving her grandchildren down State Street, playing her favorite “White Orchid” slot machine at the casino, watching QVC, and having her family and neighbors around the dining room table for Pinocchio’s pizza. She also cherished her trips to Ocean City New Jersey, Disney World and various cruises, where she made countless happy memories with her family.
If you ever needed advice, comfort, or just a good laugh, Franni was the person to call. She was a voice of reason, a ray of sunshine, a force and the heart of her family and Media.
In honor of Franni and her deep love for Rose Tree Elementary, the family kindly asks that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to The Mrs. Kelly Foundation, which will support lunch funds for Rose Tree Media Elementary School District students. Donations may be made at her Celebration of Life or via Venmo at @mrskellyfoundation.
A Celebration of Life will be held at her residence on October 21st, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, as a walk-through gathering to share memories and honor her life. Address: 345 Summit Road, Media, PA 19063.
Franni Kelly will forever be remembered for her kindness, humor, and grace — truly, a heart of gold.
Memories and Condolences
for Frances Kelly
14 Entries
John Lomas
October 22, 2025
Very sorry to hear of Franni's passing.
Maria Slavin
October 22, 2025
I am so sorry to hear of the loss of Franni. She was a wonderful neighbor and human. She would speak so fondly of her husband Jim who had passed unexpectedly. It was evident how much she loved him. While it’s sad not to have Franni here anymore, I know she is happy in heaven with the Lord and reunited with her beloved Jim.. Rest in peace, Franni. ❤
John steczak
October 21, 2025
A lady with a smile that always made me happy.
Cathy Hagen
October 19, 2025
My deepest sympathy to your family. Franni and I had known each other since kindergarten at Sandy Bank School. She and Jim were both friends to me and my brother, Tom. Jim loved Franni so much and I believe they are together again. Rest in peace old friend! She will be missed.
Carolyn Manning
October 17, 2025
My deepest sympathy to Franni family.. She was a wonderful lady.. Franni and I went to high school together.. I was in a band with Franni, she and Peggy Cell and Johnny Cell and me(Carolyn Clare Manning).. She will be missed..Rest in peace old friend!!
Bonnie West Kuc
October 13, 2025
I’m so very sad for all of you and wishing you moments of peace and comfort as you mourn the loss of your wonderful Mother, Grandmother and my Special sweet, warm loving friend.
Susan Mescanti
October 12, 2025
I will miss Frannie's beautiful face, our long phone conversations about how proud we are of our children and grandchildren, our walks down memory lane. I will miss all of her, but will keep her in my heart.
Barbara B Regan
October 11, 2025
I met Franni as I got off the school bus in 1956. Welcome to Rose Tree School, that was 68 years ago. We have been friends ever since. I will hold her in my heart and miss her forever. Love you Franni
Kathy Shegda
October 11, 2025
Franni and I became friends while working at Rose Tree Elementary School together and still remained friends to this day even after our retirement. I will miss our get togethers and especially our phone calls and laughter. Franni was the kindest and sweetest person I ever knew. I will miss you so much Franni . I love you. Rest in peace. ♥ ~~ Kathy Shegda
Rick Gittelman
October 10, 2025
So very sad to hear about Frannie. I knew Frannie and her whole family were like our extended family when I was growing up. Frannie had a great sense of humor, I remember her laugh, her smile and warm personality.
.
l have so many wonderful memories of fun times with Frannie, her late husband Jim, her parents and kids Kim and Jaimie.
It's been a while since we were in touch, especially due to me living in Arizona but I certainly am so very sad to hear about her passing.
My condolences to Kim, Jaimie and her family
Jennifer Gardner
October 10, 2025
Mrs. Kelly had a heart of gold. She was there for all my kids going through Rose Tree Elementary. I always remembered her bright eyes and big friendly smile. She was a very special lady. She will be greatly missed. Prayers to the family
Stephen Kapski
October 10, 2025
Gi and I are so sad to hear of Franni's passing. But relieved to know that she spent time in her loving families arms. Our sincere condolences.
October 10, 2025
I went to Rose Tree Elementary from 2005-2011. Mrs. Kelly was so sweet and kind. Whenever I got to school late, or had to leave early, my dad and I always looked forward to seeing "the office ladies". It wasn't often that I got to see her, but she left such a warm memory. May she rest in peace.
Anna Ciaramellano
October 10, 2025
My deepest condolences for your great loss to you and your family!RIP
Showing 1 - 14 of 14 results
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Memorial Events
for Frances Kelly
Oct
21
Celebration of Life
6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Residence
345 Summit Road, Media, PA 19063
Funeral services provided by:
Rigby Harting and Hagan Funeral Home - Media15 E 4th Street, Media, PA 19063
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