Frances “Fran” Lake, age 81, of Wichita Falls, Texas, peacefully entered the Kingdom of Heaven surrounded by her loved ones. Frances was born in Baltimore, Maryland, to George F. Clifton and Sybil M. Clifton. Frances was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband, William “Bud” M. Lake, and her son, William Scott Lake.
Frances is survived by her “baby brother” David P. Clifton of Prince Frederick, MD, daughter Jeanne Lake Petrosian and husband Henry of Wichita Falls, Texas; son Michael Lake and wife Kim Lake of Farmersville, Texas; grandsons and granddaughters Chad McAda, Michael McAda, Jenna Smith and husband Aaron Smith, Alexandria Lake and husband James Lake, Elena Lake, Lauren Morris, and husband Jared Morris; great-grandsons and great-granddaughters, Hayden McAda, Kasen McAda, Benjamin McAda, Hunter Lake, Pierce Smith, Olivia Lake and Charlotte Morris and several nieces and nephews. Frances’ family was her life’s purpose and passion.
After graduating from St. Martin’s High School, Frances married her only true love and traveled the United States and Europe supporting her husband and his mission in the United States Air Force. She was an exemplary military spouse dedicated to supporting her husband’s career and rearing her children, who also made time to mentor fellow military spouses acclimating to military life.
Sheppard Air Force Base, Wichita Falls, became the Lake’s permanent home. Anyone who came to the family home felt welcomed and loved because of Frances’ warmth and hospitality.
As an ‘empty nester”, Frances worked in the commissary deli, where many airmen and their families soon were calling her “Mom,” and for the Wichita Falls Independent School District- in the food services department. At Hirschi High School, Frances was proclaimed by the students as the “Fabulous French Fry Lady.” She acquired bonus children and grandchildren everywhere she went. Frances cherished her friends at Hirschi High School, especially their time spent playing card games and having after-school get-togethers.
As a lover of all holidays and music, Frances enjoyed decorating her home and workplace. Her over-the-top decorations and musical accompaniment brought joy and, many times, a break out of dance to those who were gifted the wonder of Frances. Music was at the core of the Lake family’s life- music was always playing. Dance lessons took place on the tiles in front of the fireplace, and road trips always included piles of CDSs and sing-alongs.
Frances could cook anything! She was a top-notch cook and baker- always the “hostess with the mostest” and forever treating family and coworkers to delicious baked goods. No ice cream cone could compare to one made by “Grandma” because she packed the ice cream down to the bottom of the cone.
Frances was quick-witted, had a great sense of humor, and was a gifted artist who made ceramics, painted, and decorated cakes. She was also a talented seamstress and made clothes for her children when they were little. She knew the importance of the little things in life and made it a point to celebrate everything in a big way – which often included one of her beautiful cakes, endless music, thoughtful gifts, and a famous Frances Lake grin. She knew how to make people feel special and made it a point to do so. Frances Lake was a treasure whose generosity knew no bounds.
Frances lived a life of selfless service. She supported her husband, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and her community. Frances was a lifelong supporter of St. Jude’s Children's Hospital. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to St. Jude’s and Hospice of Wichita Falls.
Frances was love, charity, light, and laughter. Our beloved mother, grandmother (“G”), sister and Aunt, will forever be missed. The world is a dimmer place without her in it.
A funeral mass for Frances will be held Wednesday, March 6, 2024 at 10:00 AM at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 1501 9th Street, Wichita Falls, Texas.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.9.5