Frances Manning Gowen

Frances Manning Gowen, 82, passed away on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, resilience and joy. Born on February 7, 1943 to Edward Branham Manning and Margaret Clarke Manning, Frances grew up in Roanoke Rapids, NC, where she remained for much of her life before later making Richmond, VA her home. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother, William “Bill” Manning and her beloved son, Charles “Chuck” Ewell Gowen, III, whose memory always remained close to her heart.

A graduate of Peace College and Longwood University, Frances began her career as an elementary school teacher, but the role she cherished most was being a mother and a “MeMe.” She is survived by her daughter, Margaret Manning Gowen, her son-in-law, Dallas and her grandchildren, Elizabeth Forgét, Lucie “Levi” Forgét, Edward Gowen and Matthew Gowen, of whom she was immensely proud.

Before the onset of her disability, Frances found joy in the simple rhythms of home. She loved sitting at her kitchen desk working through crossword puzzles, balancing everyone’s checkbooks (to the penny and with whiteout), reorganizing everything that was already perfectly organized and catching up with friends on the phone. She was well-traveled and loved taking trips with family and friends. Frances transformed her former backyard, which was the childhood (and neighborhood) go-cart track, into a beautiful yard that became one of her biggest joys.

Frances was known for her afternoon siestas, which her daughter believed were the secret to her youthful glow. Time schedules never quite suited her, but she never missed the moments that truly counted.

For nearly 20 years, Frances faced significant health and personal challenges with extraordinary courage, faith and grace. Through it all, she remained loving, thoughtful, positive and spiritually grounded.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers at Our Lady of Hope Health Center in Richmond, VA, for their compassion and support.

Funeral services will be held at All Saints’ Episcopal Church, 700 Roanoke Avenue, Roanoke Rapids, NC 27870 on Saturday, February 7, 2026 at 2:30 PM with Rev. Sonny Browne, III officiating.

A reception at the Parish House will immediately follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to All Saints’ Episcopal Church.