OBITUARY
Fran Keal
April 11, 1951 – March 23, 2014
Fran Fagan Keal was born on April 11, 1951, in Jacksonville, Texas, to Frances and Harold Fagan. She passed away peacefully on March 23, 2014 in Deer Park, Texas, surrounded by loving family. Fran was fearless in her two year battle with ovarian cancer, never losing her sense of fun, her style, or her compassion for others.
She was a 1969 graduate of Nacogdoches High School and a 1973 graduate of Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, Texas, where she earned her undergraduate degree in Education. She received a Master’s Degree in Administrative Education from Stephen F. Austin State University and a Master’s of Education in Curriculum and Instruction with a specialization in Language Arts from the University of Houston. Fran held both Mid Management Administration and Supervisor Certifications from the Texas Board of Education.
Throughout her impressive career, Fran focused on providing quality education to all students. She taught 7th, 8th, and 9th grade English at Galena Park Junior High School from 1973-1978; was an 8th grade math instructor from 1978-1981 at Galena Park Middle School, and in 1981, she accepted an assistant principal position at Jacinto City Elementary School, Galena Park ISD. In 1986 she was promoted to principal of MacArthur Elementary School, Galena Park ISD, where she implemented improvements resulting in the school’s TEA “Recognized” and “Exemplary” designations. From 2006 until her retirement in 2011 she was principal of Havard Elementary School in Galena Park also leading that school to the same high student achievements and academic recognition. Fran was a teacher, a leader and a motivator of others. She received the 1989 Galena Park Classroom Teachers Association Administrator of the Year Award, the Galena Park/Jacinto City Rotarian of the Year award in 1995, the North Channel Women’s Coalition Award in 2002, and the Galena Park Independent School District Elementary Principal of the Year award in 2004.
Fran was a tireless community leader and served on boards for Deer Park United Methodist Church where she was an active member, the North Channel Chamber of Commerce, and the Galena Park Chamber of Commerce. She was also a member of the Galena Park/Jacinto City Rotary where she was President from 1995-1996.
She married her loving and devoted husband Jim Keal on August 18th, 1979. Together they raised two amazingly beautiful, smart, and talented daughters: Kristen Dunigan and Tracy Melton, both of Dallas. Fran is survived by her husband, daughters, sons-in-law Sean Dunigan and Clint Melton, mother Frances Fagan, brothers Joel and David Fagan, sister Pat Wright and her husband Steve, sister-in-law Cindy Michalk and husband Stuart, brother-in-law Chuck Keal and wife Amy, nieces Lindsay Haygood, her husband Andy and son Tyler, Shelby and Mackenzie Wright, Kelli and Jamie Michalk, Holly Hart and husband Jeff, and Hannah Keal, and nephew Zach Keal. She was preceded in death by her father Dr. Harold Fagan.
Fran enjoyed life. She had an unforgettable smile that lit up a room. She was a consummate professional who had a positive impact on both students and teachers. Her family was the center of her universe. She traveled extensively abroad and enjoyed warm beaches and beautiful waterfalls. She departed this life with grace leaving a legacy of courage, determination and the ability to out shop those less than half her age. She will be missed.
The family will receive friends on Tuesday, March 25, 2014, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. in The Chapel of Grand View Funeral Home. Services will be held on Wednesday, March 26, 2014, at 3:30 p.m. at Deer Park United Methodist Church, 1300 E 13th St, Deer Park, TX 77536. Interment will follow at Grand View Memorial Park.
Services
- Visitation Tuesday, March 25, 2014
- Funeral Service Wednesday, March 26, 2014
REMEMBERING
Fran Keal
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RECEIVE UPDATESBilly Mark Smith
April 22, 2017
I first met Fran in 1962 when her father became Pastor of Park Place Methodist Church in Houston. We had Great Times at Youth Church Activities, Dancing at Teen Parties, and Going to the Movies with Friends. We even went to Deady Junior High together in the Spring of 1965. I Missed Her when Her Family moved up to another church in Nacogdoches in 1966. Imagine My Shock after looking at her Tribute Pictures and seeing her Beautiful, Amazing Transformation into a {In All Due Respect} Lovely Woman. As she was Blazing a Trail becoming a Master Educator, I was sailing as a Maritime Engineer on various Cargo Ships and Oil Tankers for 20 years. Then, I became a High School Math Teacher for a few years myself. Now, I'm a Senior Math Tutor. I Know that Fran's Spirit will be With Me, as I continue to Educate Our Students. I just found out about Her Untimely Death. Please Receive My Belated Condolences. God Bless All of Her Friends and Family.
Claudia Dempsey
April 20, 2015
Fran was the Pep Squad sponsor and I was the Band Director at Galena Park JUNIOOR School when I began teaching in 1977. We coordinated songs for pep rallies and football games. Those were the days. We had so much fun and we were so young. Actually, we were the same age. I missed Fran when she became an administrator, but I was happy for her and we did see each other at events. I'll always remember Fran's smile and her laugh and her love of children. Fran you'll always have pom poms in your hands when I think of you. God Bless your family.
Pat Wright
March 29, 2014
Love you Sis!
Julie Banks
March 27, 2014
Fran was one of the loveliest women I knew professionally and personally. She always saw the glass as half full, and her thoughtful, deliberate advice was always so valued. She stopped by many mornings in my library to chat, and it was always a treat to receive her. She had a way of settling down my most hectic mornings! She had a very calming presence, and her kind voice and gentle smile were a comfort. Her blue eyes sparkled; a co-worker and I referred to Fran as having the eyes of Christ! She was always lifting someone up. The world is a better place because of Mrs. Keal, as well as MANY students and teachers whose lives she touched. This classy, spunky lady will be missed! Prayers for peace and comfort to Jim, Tracy, Kristen and families, as well as her precious mom and brothers. Thank you for sharing Fran with us!
March 27, 2014
I've worked for many principals but Fran Keal was the absolute best of the best! She believed in you as a teacher and encouraged you to stretch the boundaries in the classroom. What a joy she was to work for. If you ever got to attend the Cinco de Mayo celebrations at MacArthur Elementary in the late eighties or early nineties, you saw a school that was working at 150 percent to build strong students. Thank you, Fran, for your inspiration. You made me a much stronger and more dedicated teacher. Prayers for Jim and the girls.
Karen Roberson (Baytown, Texas)
Gloria Vasquez
March 27, 2014
I had the honor of working with Mr. and Mrs. Keal as a principal in GPISD. I admired Mrs. Keal's zest for life and passion for students. I will always remember her by the legacy she left behind and aspire to be as passionate as she was.
Mary Reyes
March 27, 2014
Fran always had that twinkle in her eyes that made me smile. She was an amazing administrator and I'm glad I had the opportunity to work with her at Havard. My prayers go out to the family.
Sharon Sellman
March 26, 2014
Fran made a huge impact on Galena Park ISD...RIP..
Kellly Hoxha
March 26, 2014
She was an amazing administrator and I learned so much from her. My prayers are with the family.
March 26, 2014
I knew Fran through my daughter Kristi Savage who worked for her at MacArthur Elementary for seven of her ten years there. Fran was an awesome leader and Christian lady. Our prayers are with her daughters and husband. Paul and Teri Savage
Linda Jo Garcia
March 26, 2014
My sincere condolences to Mr. Keal and family!! God bless you all and give you comfort during this difficult time!! Rest in peace, Mrs. Keal!!
Edna Gallardo
March 26, 2014
Fran welcomed me so warmly as I started a new teaching career here in the U.S. She made me so much at home and was there to assure me that everything will just be fine. She was truly a motivator!
Dylana Nering
March 26, 2014
Fran gave me my first teaching job as an intern at MacArthur. I am thankful she saw something in me and gave me that chance to start my career in GPISD. I am even more thankful that I got the chance to get to know her.
Amy Hayes
March 26, 2014
I met Fran in San Antonio at a job fair in 98' & followed her to Galena Park where I still remain. I learned so much from her. She always stayed calm, had confidence, smiled, and had your back. I will truly miss her.
March 26, 2014
Mrs Keal was the consummate professional. She knew how to treat parents of her students.She will truly be missed.She exuded confidence and above all was classy.
Rosalyn Thierry
March 26, 2014
Mrs. Keal was my 7th grade math teacher and she hired me as a teacher at Mac. She was a great educator and a true lady. She will be truly missed and I will always remember her fondly.
Tonya Lloyd
March 26, 2014
Fran was a true leader. She exemplified professionalism, compassion, and leadership. She encouraged and supported our entire HAVARD Elementary faculty and students. I am so honored to have called her my principal and friend. I am a better person for having known Mrs. Keal. She will be deeply missed.
Debra Coward
March 25, 2014
I will miss Fran's smile and her warm and caring spirit.
Marsha and Vince Masi
March 25, 2014
Our prayers are for all those that Fran has left. May they be blessed with strength and comfort during their loss. We know that Fran will be smiling down on her family and friends as they celebrate a life well lived and filled with kindness and service.
Michelle Garcia
March 25, 2014
Fran gave me my first job at MacArthur, then took me with her to Havard. She was a great woman, and wonderful mentor/leader. She will be missed dearly. Thanks for all the things you did for me.
Sharon Dixon
March 25, 2014
Our lives are richer for having known Fran....a friendly, loving and caring friend. Her smile and her laugh were contagious. I am blessed for having the awesome opportunity of knowing her.
Pamela Sennette
March 25, 2014
Mrs. Keal you will truly be missed by many. You were a blessing to me and helped me in so many ways. I am glad that you were a part of my life for 5 years and was such a positive role model at Havard. I am praying for the family that the Lord will give you all strength during your bereavement.
Isaac Williams
March 25, 2014
Although we only met briefly, you will remain forever in my heart.
Jesse/Mary Soto/Boggs
March 25, 2014
We will never be the same as we were before this loss, but are ever so much BETTER for having had Fran in our lives.
Our heart and prayers for your family.
March 25, 2014
Our hearts goes out to you and your family during this difficult loss.
The Davidson Family:
Henry, Juanita & Henry III
Patricia Parrish Ricks
March 25, 2014
Dear Mama Fagan and Fran's family, Prayers for all of you as you prepare to celebrate Fran's life. We all grew together in Nac at First UMC and Fran always had that fun, smiling spirit gracing everything we did! Much love to all of you.
March 25, 2014
My heart hurts for my friend Jim Keal on the loss of his beautiful wife Fran. I wish peace for all the family. Fran will be missed. God rest her soul.
Annette & Dale Moore
March 25, 2014
So sorry to hear this. Will keep the Keal family & friends in our prayers for God to give you the comfort that only He can give.
Debbie & Ricky Cox
March 25, 2014
Ms. Keel was a 'class act' - one of the most caring, sweetest ladies I had the pleasure to know and someone I greatly admired. Thoughts and prayers to the Keel family.
Susan (Cossey) Taylor
March 25, 2014
Fran had the wonderful ability to pull from me more than I thought I had to give. She challenged me at every turn and I learned so much from her. Truly an educator in every sense of the word. I have been blessed to know her and my thoughts and prayers are with her family.
Laurie Hodges
March 25, 2014
so very sorry for your loss, Mrs Keal was one of the best principles that I ever had. she will be truly missed.
Beth Philley
March 25, 2014
Mrs. Keal
Was my principal in Elementary school. She was so sweet, kind, and energetic!
I remember always seeing a beautiful smile on her face. I'm sad she has leftthis world but know she is resting in Peace!
Marisol Rodriguez
March 25, 2014
Mrs. Keal: You were a very special person in our lives from being a great teacher to being one of the best principal my daughters had you taught us alot and loved each and everyone of us.. You remembered the kids you taught and still knew our names and years went by and placed us with our kids You are truly going to be missed my many my hearts goes out to your family May God bless them in this time Marisol Rodriguez Jessenia and Kassandra R
Angela Rosas
March 25, 2014
My condolences to the family. I had the honor of having Mrs. Keal as my principal at MacArthur Elementary and was able to work with her throughout my years at GPISD. She was an amazing person with a huge heart. She will he missed!
Sami Featherston
March 25, 2014
Mrs. Keal was a great teacher and a wonderful person! She will be greatly missed!!
Jessica White
March 25, 2014
Jim,
I am so very sorry to hear of Fran's passing. To your beautiful girls, I wish for you to think of all the wonderful memories you made with your precious mother. We will never forget her and pray for peace for each of you.
Lorna Macal
March 24, 2014
Mrs. Keal was a beautiful person and a wonderful teacher... I remember her back in GP Middle school as Ms. Fagan & her beautiful friendly smile. I am blessed to have known her. My prayers and thoughts are with you Mr. Keal and the family.... May GODS comforting hand be upon you all... IN JESUS NAME AMEN... John 14:18 & 27
Gene Tatum
March 24, 2014
The Nacogdoches High School Class of 69 sends its heartfelt prayers and support for the family of Frances V. (Fagan) Keal. She was special in every way and will always be remembered for her winning smile and willing spirit. She truly earned the "Most Likely To Succeed" honor her senior year at NHS. God Bless her family. She will be missed.
Lily Rivera
March 24, 2014
May God comfort the Keal family. Lily Rivera
Tammy Galilee
March 24, 2014
Ecclesiastes 12:9, "Not only was the teacher wise, but he also imparted knowledge to the people". -Thank you Mrs. Keal for being an example of how to be a blessing in peoples lives.
Sulma Rodriguez-Coello
March 24, 2014
I will always remember your smile. There was not one day that you didn't smile. Thank you for helping me be a more organized person. I also thank you for your personal advice.
Robert Williams
March 24, 2014
I thank God for the opportunity to have known Fran Keal. She was a wonderful person of great integrity and dignity. She was dedicated to her service as an educator and committed to excellence as administrator. I thank her for her inspiration. Fran Keal will be missed, but not forgotten!
Lisa Hoffpauir
March 24, 2014
She will be missed! She brought Havard up to where it is today. She made her job look easy and was very good at what she did! She was always upbeat and happy even throughout her cancer battle. Many prayers to her family and friends during this difficult time.
Mario & Dina Gonzales
March 24, 2014
May God comfort the Keal family and friends at this time of great sorrow.
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