Frances Laurette Stiens

It is with broken hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of Frances Stiens age 88, of Archdale, North Carolina. Frances passed peacefully surrounded by her family from this life to the life everlasting “Beyond the Sunset” to join all that truly loved her on Friday, July 10, 2026. Frances, also lovingly known as Fran, Granny Fran, Mom Fran and Mom not only to her own five children, but to all who needed her. She was born in Bethel, North Carolina on April 5, 1938, to the late Inez Bryant and Ernest Bryant. She was also preceded in death by her brother, Alton Bryant, husband Louis Stiens, son David Len Reynolds, father of her children William Reynolds, daughters-in-law Peggy and Vivian, friend partner, Gene Lowe and great-grandson Beckett Jesse Staples.

Frances was beautiful inside and out whose kindness, grace and joyful spirit brightened every room she entered and everyone she met. Her sparkle was never just what she wore - it was the warmth of her smile, the twinkle in her eyes and the generous love she shared with family, friends and everyone who was fortunate enough to know her. She believed life should be celebrated and delighted in finding beauty in the little things whether it was a budding flower on a favorite plant, a piece of jewelry, a glittering holiday ornament, or the lights and decorations from her front porch which she so enjoyed. Her home was a place of comfort, laughter, and treasured memories, where everyone was welcomed with open arms.

Frances’ proudest accomplishment was finding the strength to further her education and to meet and overcome a lot of life’s challenges. Her most satisfying career, besides being a loving mother, was working for the Department of Social Services in Pamlico, Craven and Pitt Counties. During these years (1990 – 2000) she was so proud to represent these counties as she rose through the ranks to become President of the Pamlico County Chapter NCSSA Eastern District. Following her retirement from the Department of Social Services, she worked for J.C. Penny in Burlington until health problems forced her to retire.

Frances lived in Pompano Beach, Florida, for many years with her late husband, Louis Stiens. Together, they shared a love of travel and especially enjoyed boating, fishing, and spending time with friends. Frances was an exceptional cook who expressed her love through the meals she prepared, bringing family and friends together around her table. Above all, Frances’ greatest joy were her five children. Nothing made her happier than watching her children and grandchildren grow and cheering them on in every activity they pursued. She was a devoted mother who deeply loved her children, grandchildren, greatgrandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. She is survived by her children, Brian Reynolds (Terry Brewer), Cathy Staples (Howard), Glenn Reynolds, and Mike Reynolds, along with numerous grandchildren and dear friends, lovingly known as the “Looney Tunes”.

She will always live in the hearts of those lives she touched as she leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and countless moments of joy. Those who knew her will remember her elegance, her sense of humor, her generous heart, and her reminder that life's special moments are worth dressing up for.

Though our hearts are heavy with her absence, we find comfort knowing that her light continues to shine through the lives she touched. We imagine her now surrounded by everlasting peace, where every star sparkles just a little brighter in her honor. She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

A celebration of Fran’s life will be held on Friday, July 17, 2026, at 2 p.m. at Manteo First Assembly Church, Manteo, North Carolina.

It was important to Frances to support various organizations so in lieu of flowers, please donate to the charity of your choice.

The family is under the care of Advantage Funerals & Cremations of Archdale. Online condolences may be shared at www.AdvantageArchdale.com - select obituaries.