Raised in a traditional middle class family in the 40s and 50s and with private schooling behind her, the enduring influence on Fran’s life was Corsham, where she studied sculpture, and where her passions for Art and the Natural World were ignited and burned with her all her life. .
Fran's priorities were her friends and family (in particular her daughter Katie and husband Roger to whom she was devoted), her art, her faith and ecology. She addressed all these with sensitivity and dedication.
She inherited her father’s creativity and drive and her mother's generosity of spirit but her main quality was her perseverance. As friends have described, “she put everything into everything” she set her mind to, but also with “the gentleness of a butterfly” and “She had a lovely vivacity about her”.
Despite life's many setbacks she persisted with her art as much as other pressures allowed; many remember her illustrations of otters, but also the mosaics and Celtic designs that she was so fond of. Her own style was unique - another close friend remembered “her artistic flair, she had her own style, unlike any other - delicate sensitive… working in quiet muted colours” …almost inviting the viewer in, to see what she saw.
Early on in life she recognised the importance of moths and butterflies in the balance of the natural world and worked diligently and creatively to raise awareness. With her late friend Dixie she spent many hours photographing and drawing different species, gathering valuable data on moths to contributed to local records, using her creative skills – she was an accomplished photographer – to enhance their message.
Fran had an enthusiasm that shone out from within. Fran will be remembered as a much loved sister, a loyal and giving friend, a beloved and devoted wife and a loving and guiding force to her daughter.
Throughout her life she remained true and constant in her beliefs and values.
We were all very privileged to have been touched by her gentleness and she will be deeply missed.
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