Frances Fernette Flanders

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Frances “Fran” Fernette (Fry) Flanders, the beloved family matriarch and 82-year-old widow whose enduring legacy of hard work, community involvement, compassion, and love touched the lives of all who knew her. Under the loving eyes of her nephew, she passed away peacefully, leaving behind a life story rich in achievement, dedication, and an unyielding commitment to the well-being of others.

Fran was born to her parents Robert Barmore Fry and Fern Noreen (Bender) Fry in a tumultuous time at the beginning of World War II. As the war intensified, her father was stationed in Southern California and eventually Europe, leaving her mother to care for her alone. During Bob’s deployment, she spent time in the Midwest with her grandparents, making memories of collecting eggs on the farm and building snow forts. When her father returned, Fran learned share her parents with two brothers and a sister. The family moved back to California where Fran resided for the remainder of her life.

Fran graduated in 1960 from Chaffey HS. After a couple years of college, she began her career with the Gas Company, working in customer service until her retirement.

Fran was married to her beloved husband Hal Flanders for more than 40 years. They made their home in Cherry Valley, where they spent many happy years. The two had fun selling antiques, traveling, and staying very active in the community. They hosted foreign exchange students and family gatherings, maintained a beautiful orchard, and raised many rescue dogs and cats through the years. Frequent road trips across the country were a major highlight for them, and they would explore many out-of-the-way places during their travels.

Fran spent years as a contributing member to Acres and Neighbors, which advocates for responsible development practices in California. She volunteered with hospice, tutored children, and assisted friends in need.

Fran lived the final two years of her life at The Village in Hemet, where she quickly earned a reputation for being upbeat and friendly to all. When asked how she was doing, she usually replied with her signature, “Super Deluxe!” A collection of smiley faces decorated her rooms, cars, and jewelry.

She maintained close contact with her friends and family. Her nieces and nephews fondly remember “Aunt Fran” as someone who was supportive and genuinely interested their life updates. The cheerful weekend conversations will be deeply missed.

Fran was preceded in death by Hal in December of 2012. She is survived by her siblings, David (Bonnie) Fry, Mary Ann Schuler, and Bill (Ronda) Fry, as well as many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Fran’s life will be held at Weaver Mortuary in Beaumont on June 18, 2025, at 10 AM. She will be inurned beside Hal at the Riverside National Cemetery in Riverside, California.