Frances Marie Marshall

Frances Marie Marshall, affectionately known as Fran to her friends and family, passed away peacefully on January 28, 2026, in Dover, DE. Born on March 13, 1942, in Wilmington, DE, Fran lived a full and vibrant life characterized by her funny, thoughtful, and loving nature.

Funny, thoughtful, and kind are words that only begin to scratch the surface of Fran's character. She had the rare ability to find humor in the dull and to turn everyday moments into cherished memories. Her comedic timing was impeccable, often leaving her audience in stitches with her witty observations and playful banter, much like one of her beloved lighthouses, guiding us all through life's fog with her radiant spirit. Her laugh was infectious, her wit sharp, and her love for her family deeper than the ocean.

Fran was the cherished matriarch of a lineage graced by love and laughter. She was preceded in her departure by her beloved husband, Frank W. Marshall, Sr., her parents, Milton V., Sr. and Edna M. Springer Lord, her brother and his wife, Milton V., Sr. and Janet Lord, her sisters Ruth Simmons and Jean Leipold, and her niece, Betty Jean Simmons.

She leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter, survived by her two sons, Frank W. Marshall, Jr. and his wife Yvonne of Clayton, and Faron W. Marshall, Sr. of Leipsic; her adored grandchildren, Daniel and his companion Desiree, Faron Jr., Brandon, and Christine; and her cherished great-grandchildren, Destiny, Elijah, Andrea, Callie, Emerson, Walker, Cassie, Phoebe, James and Bella. Fran's extended family of nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and great-great nieces and nephews will also hold her memory dear. Fran's love was a constant, steady force that guided her family through life's ups and downs.

Before retiring as the Clubroom Manager from the American Legion David C. Harrison Post 14 in Smyrna, DE, in 2007, Fran was the life of every party and the heart of the organization. She didn't just manage the clubroom; she was the master of merriment, orchestrating unforgettable gatherings and leaving everyone with stories to tell for years to come.

Beyond her professional life, Fran had a zest for life that was contagious. She found joy in the simple pleasures, like spending time with her family, hosting crab feasts on the porch, and watching the hummingbirds flit around her feeders. Fran's hobbies included playing bingo, where her sense of humor was always a hit, and collecting lighthouses and frogs, which brought her immense joy.

As we say goodbye to Fran, we celebrate the remarkable woman she was and the countless lives she touched. In and around Leipsic, there was hardly a child who didn't turn to Fran for help - whether it was a sewing mishap, a ride to the hospital, or simply a Band-Aid and comfort. Her memory will live on in the stories shared, the traditions she established, and the love she spread. Fran's spirit, characterized by her humor, thoughtfulness, and loving nature, will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her. She will be deeply missed, but her legacy will endure in the hearts of her family and friends.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2026 from 11 AM to 12 PM in the Faries Funeral Chapel, located at 29 S. Main Street in Smyrna. Memorial services will begin at 12 PM. She will be laid to rest in the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Bear, Delaware on Wednesday, February 18, 2026.