If 96 doesn’t sound young, it is only because you hadn’t been introduced to Mary Frances.
The past year she slowed down, because her body countered her mind. She was always ready to go and wanted to. I became her self-appointed chauffeur for library book discussions when she was available. It was not unusual for her to have another engagement with a friend or relative, someone from out of town.
When she attended the book discussions, her spirit filled the room. Her husky voice and phrasing (Oh, my dear... or Wonderful!) is indelible.
She loved humor and could laugh at herself. After breaking her arm last year, I asked her how she could break her arm — she didn’t have that far to fall. “Oh, my dear, you are so right. I thought I would bounce.”
Zara Liskowiak, director of the Champaign County Library, remembered being hired as the children’s librarian in 1976. After becoming the director, Mary Frances patiently taught Zara to order books for all parts of the library.
In addition to the library, she was an active member of the Presbyterian Church. Pastor Kevin Horrigan was also a friend and neighbor. He recalled her interaction with his own family, even becoming “Grandma Hall” to his granddaughter, Lila. He recalled her love of people and animals. Kevin remembered her dog, Bunny. Cats, Missy and Mazzie were her latest adoptions.
Zara said Mary Frances loved standard poodles, taking them on walks. That breed must have towered over her.
Oh, my dear, seconds after learning of Mary Frances’s demise, a window popped up on my computer reminding to call her about going to the book discussion. I’m not sure that wasn’t her doing from her heavenly chair.
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