Age 83, of Baldwin Township, passed away peacefully on March 2, 2022. She was the daughter of Andrew Howard and Gertrude Howard (formerly Disler) of Brookline and later Green Tree. Fran was predeceased by her husband Daniel, and she is survived by five sons and their spouses, who were daughters to her: Andy and Donita, Mike and Luci, Vince and Ann, Dan and Nora, and Matt and Kimberly. She was the loving grandmother of 15—Nick, Paige, Anthony, Hannah, Max, Kate, Ashley, Alex, Rocco, Crystal, Amy, Heather, Dylan, Sarah, and Lauren—and great grandmother of 4—Sam, Shepard, Ivy, and Ena.
Fran attended Elizabeth Seton High School, graduating as the class salutatorian, and she received a scholarship to attend Seton Hill University, where she went on to major in Art and English Education. She was an amazing woman who accomplished so much with incredible grace, humor, and humility. In addition to raising her five boys, Fran cared for her husband, prematurely disabled with MS, for 25 years, and she had an exemplary 38-year career as an Art and English teacher in the Baldwin-Whitehall School District. Fran was the editor of the Baldwin High School student newspaper, the Purbalite, and several of the students she mentored have gone on to have notable careers in journalism.
After retirement, Fran continued to stay involved in the Pittsburgh community, volunteering as a Docent at the Carnegie Art Museum, painting and organizing exhibits for various South Hills art leagues, and participating in the Frosty Valley and South Park woman's golf leagues. Fran loved to laugh, loved being around her family and friends, and loved to help others—especially those who were less fortunate and needed the extra support and attention. Fran was a devoted parishioner at St. Winifred's, and her deep faith was exemplified not just in words, but in the quiet actions and deeds she demonstrated every day. Her smile could light up a room and her soul has touched all of us.
All of Fran's family and friends are invited to attend her visitation on Sunday, 2-6 p.m. at William Slater II Funeral Service at 1650 Greentree Road Scott Twp., 15220. Mass of Christian Burial, Monday 10:00 a.m. St. SS. Simon & Jude Church, St. Raphael the Archangel Parish. Interment Allegheny Cemetery. A luncheon immediately following will be held at William Slater II Hospitality Suite, and all are welcome and encouraged to celebrate her life with us. www.slaterfuneral.com