Frances Bond Arellano

Frances Flo-Ann Bond Arellano, born on August 18, 1926, in Virginia, peacefully passed away on June 21, 2024, at the age of 97. A beloved mother, Frances lived a life full of grace, compassion, and unwavering strength. Frances spent the majority of her 97 years living in West Virginia and Virginia where she raised her children and would often be found crocheting blankets for those she loved. For the past 12 years, she resided in Mesa, Arizona living out her golden years surrounded by family and friends.

Frances was a graduate of Radford College (Virginia) and dedicated approximately 25 years of her life to teaching Home Economics & Physical Education, sharing her passion for homemaking and life skills with countless students. She loved teaching and found great joy in inspiring her students. In addition to her love for teaching, Frances was once a female basketball coach. After retiring, she remained an avid basketball fan and enjoyed watching NBA games, sharing her enthusiasm with family and friends.

Frances is survived by her sons Manny Arellano of WV, Monroe and daughter-in-law Stacey Arellano of the home, and daughter Patti Presley and son-in-law Jamie of VA. She is also survived by her adored grandchildren, Sarah Higgins, Cody Arellano, Halea Fowler, and Rebecca Smith, and her cherished great-grandchildren, Ben and Aayla Higgins, Finn and Eleanor Arellano.

Frances was predeceased by her husband, Manual & her siblings: brother - William Bond, sisters - Kate Cox and Mary Ruth Williams; and granddaughters, Emma Arellano and Rachel Smith.

She will be remembered for her strength & feisty nature, as well as her kindness, her dedication to her family, her love of animals and her ability to bring joy to everyone she met. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to research for Dementia/Alzheimer's or to your local Hospice organization. On behalf of the family, we want to say a special thank you to Janelle, Cindy, Beth, and the entire staff at Hospice of the Valley who supported the family over the last three years. Furthermore, thank you also to all of our friends and family – including Holli Nieto & her family - who were part of the village that surrounded Frances and helped to provide love, counsel and support, and helped Stacey and Monroe to provide continued care for Frances in her home.

A private service will be held for family members to honor her life and legacy.