June 17, 1928 - February 3, 2025
In loving memory ~
Frances (Turner) Townsend passed away peacefully on February 3, 2025, in Nelson, British Columbia at Mountain Lake Seniors Community. She was with beloved family members during her transition from this life.
Frances was born on June 17, 1928, in San Francisco, California, while her parents were there attending a conference. Surprise! She was named Frances after the city of her birth.
Frances was the eldest of four siblings, bringing warmth and joy into the lives of her parents, George and Gladys Turner, as well as to her brothers and sister—George, Joyce, and David—along with her adopted brother, Thomas.
Frances lived her entire life in Nelson. A proud graduate of Nelson High School, Frances continued her education at Nelson Business School.
When Frances met Gerald, they had a whirlwind romance, marrying six months after they met. Before marrying the love of her life, Gerald, she worked as a stenographer at the Nelson Courthouse, where her efficiency and attention to detail were greatly valued.
In 1969, Frances embarked on a new venture alongside her sister-in-law, Wilma Turner, managing Allen's Art Shoppe. She nurtured the business until 1984, cultivating a beloved local shop known for its unique gifts and greeting cards. Frances's entrepreneurial spirit and artistic flair made it a cherished part of the community.
After retirement, Frances and Gerald traveled to Arizona to spend their winters. They loved Arizona and made very dear friends that lasted throughout the rest of their lives.
Family was the cornerstone of Mom's life. She was a devoted wife to our dad, Gerald, her loving husband of 71 years, who predeceased her. She was predeceased by their son, Jonathan, and her siblings, George, David, and Tom. Mom's legacy lives on through her children: Leslie (John) Shirley, Brenda (Raymond) DeJong, Sharon (Mario) Campese, and Denise (Gene) Drouin. Her grandchildren—Shelley, Matthew, Jacob, Michael, Dana, Justin, Laura, Lee, Jordan, and Jennifer—along with her eight great-grandchildren, who will forever hold her in their hearts.
Mom will be remembered for her loving nature, quick wit, and creative soul. She had a deep passion for gardening, nurturing beauty wherever she went. Her hands were rarely idle—knitting countless precious pieces for loved ones. In her later years, she discovered a talent for painting, leaving behind a colourful legacy for her family to treasure.
Heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate care given by the team at Mountain Lake Seniors Community, whose kindness and dedication made a meaningful difference in Mom's final years. A special thank you to Nathan, who was one of Mom's favourite people at Mountain Lake, they shared a special connection. Deep appreciation to everyone at Mountain Lake who touched Mom's life with care, entertainment and kindness.
Goodbye Mom, we celebrate a life well lived—one marked by unwavering love, generosity, and a creative spirit that inspired all who knew you. You will be deeply missed but remembered with enduring love. Mom's journey reminds us all to cherish life's simple pleasures, nurture our bonds with family, and embrace each day with a joyful and creative heart.
A graveside service will be held at a later date.
For more information and to leave a message of condolence, please see the Thompson Funeral Service website at https://www.thompsonfs.ca