Frances L. England

1933 - 2026

The beloved and beautiful Frances (Wilson) England, born September of 1933, passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 1st, with her devoted daughter by her side.

Fran was the oldest daughter of William and Virginia (Rudyard) Wilson. She was born in Dayton, OH, but grew up Indianapolis, graduating from Warren Central High School in 1951. She had two younger siblings, Bill Wilson, who preceded her in death and Evelyn (Wilson) Garwood, Hartsville, IN.

She married Gerald (Jerry) England in 1952 and had a daughter, Jerri Lynne in 1953. Both preceded her in death.

She is survived by her three children, Gary England of Indianapolis, Steve England of McCordsville and Christi (England) Reynolds of Columbus, Indiana as well as four grandchildren and five great children.

Fran was the most devoted wife, mother, sister, daughter, friend and neighbor. Because of her generous heart, she always put others' needs before herself. She was kind, giving, loving, gracious and so appreciative of the wonderful life she was given. It wasn't without its hardships, but she never complained and worked hard to succeed in all aspects of her life - be it personal, professional or spiritual.

As a young wife she encouraged Jerry to attend college, helping him attain his master's degree by typing and editing all his papers. After Jerry's graduation she supported and encouraged his dreams and aspirations, attending his games and meets when he was an athlete and as a coach. They traveled extensively, near and far, and were always up for an adventure.

She and Jerry had a love affair for the storybooks that lasted beyond Jerry's passing in 2021. Fran didn't remember that Jerry had passed and every night, sometime several times and without fail, she would ask, "where's Jerry?". He was with her in the end when she passed.

As a mother to three, she was a fierce and loving mother that wanted the best for her children. She supported them unfailingly, but she never

smothered, tried to control or offered advice unsolicited. At the same time, she and Jerry let them each find their way in the world, giving them the courage and independence to do so, letting them each take ownership in the lives they created for themselves. Their pride in each of their children, though, was obvious to all.

Fran did all she could to provide a warm and comfortable home, always filled with music, laughter, friends, family and the BEST parties. She was the "hostess with most-est" - whether it was a Christmas party, family reunion, neighborhood gathering or theme party. Everyone that was lucky enough to attend and would tell you the England's threw the best parties.

Friends, neighbors, co-workers and fellow parishioners all admired Fran and cherished their relationships with her. She was never at odds with anyone, her entire life. All that met her were dazzled by her inner and outer beauty and sweet, but modest charm. She lived by the motto, 'I have room for one more friend, he is everyman". She was a proper lady but never put on airs and treated everyone with respect.

Fran retired from her career in the male-dominated construction industry as the General Manager and founding part owner of TriMack Barricade Company which, under her leadership, was profitable the first year. She was also an active member of NAWIC, National Assoc. of Women in Construction. She was a mighty recruiter and went on to become chapter president in1989. From this grew an amazing group of BFFs that she loved and had amazing adventures with.

She will be missed terribly by all that knew and came to love her, basking in her warmth and charm. Life with go on without her but never be the same.

A celebration of her life service will be held at her church, Morgantown United Methodist Church, on Sunday, February 15th, at noon, with a gathering for food and fellowship to follow. If attending, please be prepared to share your memories and stories of the lovely Fran. Services have been entrusted to Meredith Funeral Home in Morgantown. Condolences: meredith-clark.com.

Fran was a gardener and loved flowers, so the family would love to fill the sanctuary with them. Please send flowers directly to the church at 20 E Washington, Morgantown, IN, 46160.