Frances Lee Bienvenue

Frances Lee Bienvenue (née Carey), age 82, passed away peacefully on November 26, 2025, in Groves, Texas. Born on February 15, 1943, in Port Arthur, Texas, Frances lived a life marked by creativity, compassion, and enduring love for her family.

Frances pursued her education with determination and pride. She obtained her license from the local Beauty School before she earned an associate degree from Lamar University. Her educational journey reflected her lifelong passion for learning and self-improvement.

Throughout her lifetime, Frances embraced a variety of roles that showcased her talents and adventurous spirit. She worked at Alpine Village Pharmacy and Traverse Bay Woolen Co. in Gaylord, Michigan—positions that allowed her to connect with others through service and community. President of the Petroleum Wives Club she orchestrated a fund raiser by creating the Petroleum Wives Cookbook. The funds raised from the cookbook were used to purchase the first neonatal isolator for Otsego Memorial Hospital. One of the highlights of her professional life was fulfilling a dream by working in the Wardrobe Trailer for the movie “The Chase.” She held the position of District Manager for Mae's Fabric in Mobile, Alabama and Pensacola, Florida, which, jumped started her interest in sewing professionally. Her entrepreneurial spirit led her to open and operate Fabrics by Frances for many years, where she combined business acumen with artistic flair while she made everything from wedding dresses to casual wear. Later in life, she joined Kroger in Katy, Texas—not out of necessity but for the joy it brought her.

Among all these endeavors, Frances considered raising her children to be her most cherished role. She also found deep fulfillment as the adopted grandparent in Waterside Estates in Richmond, Texas—a role that spoke to her nurturing nature and generous heart.

Frances had a boundless enthusiasm for hobbies that allowed her to create beauty and bring joy to others. She was skilled in Cajun cooking, cake decorating, sewing, dog grooming, crocheting, knitting, photography, quilting, and crafting of all kinds. Her hands were rarely still; they were always busy making something meaningful for someone else.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 62 years, JR., and their two beloved children: Rusty Bienvenue and husband Brian Malarkey, and Monique Bienvenue. Her sibling: Catherine (Max) Payne, Linda Doodeheefver, and Donald Carey. Frances was preceded in death by her parents Martin F. Carey and Bernice Dekerlegand Carey, as well as her older brother Martin Carey Jr.

Those who knew Frances remember a smart and spirited woman whose hugs could brighten any day. She was known for always having a laugh ready and a smile to share—gifts she gave freely to everyone around her.

May the memory of Frances Lee Bienvenue bring comfort to those who knew and loved her.