Two years ago, when Sister Frances was celebrating her 80th Jubilee, she was delighted to embrace that occasion as an opportunity to revisit her past. It was clear that she viewed all that is, and has been, as blessings in ministry, in relationships, and on her personal journey.

Sister Frances credited her parents and siblings for the positive view she had on life and on her life’s experience. She recalled, “We were so loved, and we loved each other. My six brothers and five sisters were always helping one another, and we were the best advice-givers for each other. We prayed together often that we would be good, and to be the best we could be.”

She said that closeness is what made it hard for her to come to the convent. “I missed my parents and siblings so much,” she remembered. “Yet, I wanted to join my sister Mary Alice in the convent. I am so happy I did. It is just right for me.” After Sister Mary Alice passed away in 2022, Frances shared that her late sister was “such an inspiration for me, and I pray for, with, and to her every day.”

Sister Frances was a beloved teacher who was a model for her students on how to live in Christ’s love and serve others. Her students would say that she understood how to make each of them feel wanted and special. With her quiet voice and compassion, Sister had her students eager to learn. Discipline never seemed to be an issue. One understanding look from Sister was all that was needed to have students shape up.

Sister Frances was a teacher and principal at schools in Wisconsin and Illinois for 52 years. She also taught summer school, catechizing children who were unable to attend a Catholic school.  Sister recalled, “I loved those children who came to learn about our loving God and to receive the sacraments.”

Sister Francis’ memories of her mission experiences were all good ones. She said that everyone was so helpful, all the time, and that all the sisters loved, enjoyed, and cared about each other. One particular memory that brought back special feelings was when she got to climb the ladder to shroud the statues in church during Lent. Everyone on the mission worked together to have the church ready for this solemn liturgical season.

Many of you know that Frances and Mary Alice were awesome bakers. For many years, they generously donated their time and talent to bake a variety of cookies and their special peach pecan quick bread for the St. Joseph Center Fall Festival. When they moved to Sacred Heart, they retired all their baking equipment and dedicated themselves to the ministry of prayer and presence.

Throughout her religious life, Sister Frances said she worked with wonderful people, and that each person had been a gift to her. She also saw her retirement at Sacred Heart as a gift and a treasure. Her appreciation of all of God’s creation, and a love of jokes and laughter, convinced Frances that life was truly good, a journey filled with prayer, care, and blessings for all.

Thank you, Sister Frances, for being a gift and a treasure for all of us.