Francine "Fran" Rae Schneider

Francine “Fran” Rae Schneider, a devoted mother whose unwavering love and gentle spirit shaped the lives of all who knew her, was called home by her Lord and Savior on April 5, 2025, in New Philadelphia, Ohio, at the age of 67. A beloved grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, Fran’s warmth and compassion will be forever cherished.

Fran was born on January 25, 1958, in Waverly, Iowa, and grew up in Shell Rock. She graduated from Waverly-Shell Rock High School in 1976 before earning her cosmetology license. It wasn’t long before she found the love of her life, the late Daniel R. Billman, and together they built the family she had always dreamed of.

Throughout her life, Fran worked hard and embraced the simple joys—playing the lottery, visiting garage sales, listening to music, gardening, canning, and relaxing on her porch swing while watching the birds and squirrels. But above all, her greatest joy came from spending time with her family, whom she loved fiercely and unconditionally.

Fran was known for her contagious laugh, sharp wit, and signature sass. She never let anyone leave her home hungry and made sure every visit ended with a hug, a kiss, and an “I love you.” Her love was felt deeply by all who were lucky enough to know her.

She is survived by her children, whom she loved beyond measure: Carla (Otto) Polilli, Katie Billman, Daniel (Heather) Billman, Deanna (Nelson) Riesdorph, and Danielle Billman II.

She leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Andrew (Lacey) Bethards, Colton (Kylynn) Sterling, Abigail (Cason) Polilli, Otto Polilli IV, Olivia Poole, Kail (Bristol) Poole, Arian Poole, Samantha, Emmalin, Arianna, Ava, Lily, and Roman Billman, Kasey (Jose) Lopez, Robert, Ryan, and Riley Hartshorne, Melisa Kae, and Kari (Adam) Merry.

Her great-grandchildren, the lights of her life, include: Brynlee, Marybella, Hudson, Haisley Bethards, JD Conner, Callie McCauley, Kacyn Poole and Kingston Poole Calionna and Avery Hartshorne, Karina and Karmella Lopez, and Blake Merry.

Fran is also survived by her loving siblings: Barb (Larry) McCaulley, Mary (Louis) Newcomer, Margaret Foutch, Lois Morrill, Donna Schneider, and Kenneth (Cathy) Schneider, along with many nieces and nephews who adored her.

She was welcomed into eternal rest by her beloved son Andrew Francis Billman; her parents, Francis Wilfred and Regina Marie (Hansen) Schneider; her brothers, Jimmy and Duane Schneider; great-grandchildren Antonio Lopez, Amelia Merry, and Harley Hartshorne; and her son-in-law Frankie Poole.

Fran’s legacy of love, strength, and faith will live on in the hearts of her family and all who were blessed to know her.

Funeral services will be held Friday, April 11, 2025, 12:00 pm at Paquelet-Falk Funeral Home, 303 S. Chapel St., Louisville, where the family will receive friends from 11:00 am until the time of service. If was Fran’s wish for cremation to follow services.