Frances Mary Lee

Frances M. Lee (1943-2025)

Frances Mary Lee (née Dougherty) was one of nine children born to Arthur and Mary Dougherty. Raised in the Inwood neighborhood of Manhattan, Frances developed an early love for nature, long walks, and hiking-interests that would stay with her throughout her life. She excelled academically and was accepted to the Bronx High School of Science.

She graduated from City College and met her beloved husband, George Lee, in class while getting her graduate degree. She began her professional career at the Museum of Natural History and later became a New York City public high school teacher. For 28 years, Frances taught science, including A.P. Biology and A.P. Physics, at Susan Wagner High School and Port Richmond High School on Staten Island.

Above all, Frances loved being a mom to her two daughters, Mary Alice Dadras and Suzanne Sprague, and a grandmother, "Ya-Ya" to her three grandsons, Zachary Sprague, Auden Dadras and Everett Dadras, and granddaughter, Morgan Sprague. She took immense pride in their lives and delighted in every moment spent with them.

Frances is survived by her sons-in law, Robert Dadras and Bob Sprague; sister, Veronica Laverty, and brother-in-law Gary Laverty; brother-in-law, Paul Villeneuve; sister, Sr. Christina Dougherty; brother, Arthur Dougherty, sister-in-law, Jeanne Dougherty; and sister-in-law Virginia Dougherty; and many loving nieces and nephews.

An avid nature lover, Frances loved spending time with her dog, taking long walks, swimming in Cape Cod, and hiking. Remarkably, last year she hiked to the bottom of the Grand Canyon for the fifth time-a testament to her strength, determination, and adventurous spirit. She also gave generously of her time, volunteering with St. Vincent de Paul, St. Joan of Arc, and assisting seniors with their taxes through AARP.

Frances will be remembered for her inquisitive mind, resilience, kindness, and unmistakable sense of humor. Her laughter, love, and unwavering determination will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

In lieu of flowers, we request that donations be made in her name to St. Vincent De Paul, where she volunteered, or Trust for Public Land, a non-profit organization where her daughter works that preserves many of the hiking trails she enjoyed.

Funeral services will be held Monday, Dec 22 at Vistoso Funeral Home in Oro Valley, AZ.

Click this link to view additional details about Frances' Services: https://my.gather.app/remember/frances-lee-dec-2025