Frances Hope Reed

Reed, Frances Hope was born on April 23, 1930, in Porterville, California, the fourth child of Dr. H. Earl and Ethel A. Reed. She was graduated from Porterville Junior College in 1950. She transferred to the University of California, Berkeley, and was graduated in 1953 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History. Frances lived in Santa Monica for over thirty years, where she was an active member of the community and a philanthropist. Frances is remembered by her friends for her compassion and concern for children, the poor, and animals. Helping others was her avocation and her passion. She gave her support to numerous community organizations, including Upward Bound House of Santa Monica, which has built housing for low-income seniors and transitional housing for homeless families with minor children; the Westside Food Bank; the Venice Family Clinic; Ocean Park Community Center; the CLARE Foundation; Friends of Peace Pilgrim; Saint Joseph Center; Equus horse sanctuary; Best Friends animal sanctuary; and many, many more. Frances was also a music lover who patronized local musicians whenever possible. From jazz to classical to opera, Frances deeply appreciated musical talent. A colorful character, Frances (known as Francine to her friends) endeared herself at many Santa Monica establishments where she was a regular for a number of years. Frances left her indelible impress on everyone she met. She was known for her inimitable style and unconventional views as well as her kindness and generosity. She is also remembered as a tolerant person who very much accepted and respected diversity. She will be remembered by her friends for her humor, her warmth, and her selfless concern for the people she loved and for people in need. Frances is survived by her sister, Judith A. Humpherys, and several nieces and nephews. In accordance with Frances' heartfelt wishes, the family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Upward Bound House of Santa Monica, 1104 Washington Ave., Santa Monica, CA 90403; or First United Methodist Church of Santa Monica, 1008 Eleventh Street, Santa Monica, CA 90403. Frances Hope Reed died in her Santa Monica home on August 8, 2001, from cancer. A memorial service will be held at the First United Methodist Church of Santa Monica, on Saturday, August 18, at 3 pm. Please feel free to wear Frances' favorite colors of pink and green or any pastels as we give thanks to God for her time here with us, and celebrate her life through music.