Frances "Frankie" Graham

Frances was born on April 3, 1935, in Clare, Ireland. As a young woman, she lived in London before courageously immigrating to New York City to begin a new chapter of her life in America. She eventually made Wichita, Kansas, her home, where she spent most of her adult life raising her family and creating a home filled with love, kindness, generosity, and warmth.

She was first married to Dimond D. Mundy, the father of her children, and later married William C. Graham.

Frances dedicated her life to her family. She was a loving homemaker whose greatest joy came from caring for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She lived during a time when neighbors knew one another, church communities were extended families, and helping others was simply part of everyday life. Frances embodied those values through countless acts of kindness, quiet generosity, and unconditional love.

An accomplished seamstress, Frances lovingly sewed clothing and special gifts for her family throughout the years. She also devoted countless hours to making baby blankets, many of which she donated to families she knew as well as to complete strangers. Through these simple acts of kindness, she touched the lives of people she would never even meet.

One of the greatest blessings of Frances’ final days was the opportunity to visit with each of her children before peacefully passing away in her own bed, surrounded by the love of family.

Frances was preceded in death by her two infant sons, one who passed before birth and one who passed away shortly after birth; and her grandson, Michael Pagano.

She leaves behind eight children and a loving family that continues to carry her legacy.

Survivors include her daughter Jackie Avant and husband Steve ; grandchildren Amanda Brown, great-grandchildren Colton, Alivia, and Caden; Jason Avant and wife Gina, great-grandchildren Alyssa, Katie, Tori, Jack, and Joey; and Alicia Strobel and husband Tim, great-grandchildren Ella, Ally, and John.

Her daughter Charne Pagano; grandson Matthew Pagano, great-grandchildren Carter, Caden, and Lydia; and granddaughter Casey Hess and husband Jerry, great-grandchildren Bailey and Addison. Chelsea Gonzalez and husband Chris, great grandchildren Stella and Luca

Her daughter Lori Russell and husband Jim ; granddaughter Jamie Peters and husband Matt, great-grandchildren Hudson, Cooper, and Parker; and grandson Joshua Russell and wife Laurel, great-grandchildren Morgan and Mackensie.

Her son Dimond Mundy and wife Bari; grandchildren Dimond and Brady.

Her daughter Kelly Ball and husband Michael Ball; granddaughter Jessica Dibble and husband Dustin, ( great-grandsons Jack, Brooke, Chase); and granddaughter Grace Ball.

Her daughter Julie Bailey and husband Ken; grandchildren Paige and Alec.

Her daughter Denise Hazen and husband Bryan ; grandchildren Emily Deviney and husband Max, and Eric Warren and spouse Sarah.

Her daughter Jennifer Herron and husband Don ; grandchildren Lauren and Noah.

Frances was blessed with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, each one bringing her tremendous pride and joy. Her family continued to grow throughout her life, and every new child born into the family is a reminder that her love and legacy continue through the generations.

Although Frances lived a full and beautiful 85 years, those who loved her still feel the space she left behind. That void is softened each time another great-grandchild is welcomed into the family she so lovingly nurtured. Her influence continues not only through the generations who bear her name, but through the values of kindness, generosity, faith, resilience, and unconditional love that she instilled in her family.

Frankie will be remembered for her gentle spirit, generous heart, unwavering devotion to her family, and the countless lives she touched through simple acts of love and kindness. Her memory will forever remain a treasured blessing to all who knew and loved her.

“A life measured not by possessions, but by the love given to others, leaves a legacy that never ends.”