Frances Jean (Lynagh) O’Malley was born in Halifax on March 14, 1926, the youngest daughter of Edward and Sarah (Quinn) Lynagh. Raised in the west end, Frances attended St Thomas Aquinas School, St Patrick’s High School, and was married in St Thomas Aquinas Church She worked for times at Simpsons Mail Order and H.H. Marshall Ltd.
St. Mary’s Boat Club, Club 83, and St. Joseph’s CYO were important places for Frances. At the Boat Club Frances was introduced to her husband-to-be, Clyde O’Malley, who was just back from his WWII service in England.
After her marriage Frances settled into the life she wanted, raising her four children and being a homemaker. She did this as Clyde worked hard to establish his business, O’Malley Electric Ltd.
Once her older children were in school, Frances took the opportunity to engage in activities for herself. Morning Mass started her day, followed by bowling, swimming or exercise class. Before Frances learned to drive, she could be seen pushing her youngest child in the baby carriage through Mt Olivet Cemetery, up to the shopping center for bowling or shopping errands.
Frances became a volunteer at the old Grace Maternity Hospital, followed by the new Grace when it was built and linked with the IWK. She enjoyed working on the information desk.
Like her two sisters, Frances was an avid stitcher of needlepoint. She also enjoyed sewing and knitting. Frances’ projects ranged from clothing for herself and her children to a full wardrobe of Barbie clothes handmade by Frances and her sister, Edna.
Reading was a lifelong pleasure for Frances. Curling was another activity she enjoyed. The Mayflower Curling Club was a great place for that, as well as for Saturday evening dances with family and friends. Frances learned how to play bridge, which brought her new enjoyment and friends.
Frances’ faith was the firm underpinning of her life. It sustained her especially during the difficult times in life and throughout her declining health.
“I, Colleen, were to picture Muma at her happiest, I would say that was taking a long, brisk walk in Point Pleasant Park. Second best would be walking the sand flats off the shore of the family cottage at Malagash. She also found a lot of pleasure in her trips down south with her husband.”
Frances was the last surviving member of her immediate family. She was predeceased by her husband Clyde O’Malley, and by her sisters Margaret (Clyde) Livingstone and Edna Lynagh. Frances is survived by her four children, Sean, Colleen Brian (Lena), and Patrick (Janice). She had six grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.
No visitation by request. Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 11:00 am, Monday February 24, 2020 at St. Agnes Catholic Church, 6903 Mumford Rd, Halifax with reception to follow.
If so wished, in lieu of flowers, donations to a charity of your choice would be appreciated.
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