Frances Lewis Arbes

Frances Lewis Arbes passed away on February 17, 2018. Born June 4, 1927, she was the only child to Celia Sears Lewis and Clifton Whitaker Lewis. Frances attended Anderson College, in S.C., and then the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she graduated with a B.A. degree in Sociology. It was at UNC-CH that she met the love of her life, Sam, whom she married in 1949.

After living in several locations, she and Sam settled in Cary, N.C. in 1960, where they raised their three children. Frances was an active member of Peace Presbyterian Church in Cary for over 30 years and was known for her faith in God, nurturing love, and hospitality. For many years, Frances lovingly served in an outreach to international students attending North Carolina State University. She had a heart for people, especially those who had endured hardships. People could count on her for prayer. Frances faithfully cared for others throughout her life, opening her home to elderly relatives and showing compassion. She also loved to learn and stay well-informed about current events and world affairs.

Besides her devotion to God and others, Frances was devoted to her family. She adored her six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Her impact on their lives is evident and will be long lasting.

Frances is survived by her son, Samuel James Arbes, Jr. (wife Viesha); her daughter, Amy Arbes Vogler (husband Ben); her six grandchildren, Anna Claire Murnick Price (husband Patrick), Abigail Murnick Jones (husband Patrick), Hope Vogler Dooley (husband Stephen), Samuel James Arbes III, Sarah Elizabeth Arbes, and Daniel James Vogler; and her three great-grandchildren, Sadie Grace Dooley, Lucille Watson Price, and George Buchanan Jones. Frances was proceeded in death by her husband, Samuel James Arbes, her daughter, Anne Arbes Murnick, and her son-in-law, Elliot Paul Murnick.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, February 24th, at Peace Church in Cary, N.C. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Frances' memory may be made to Peace Church.