Obituary of Frances L. Jones

Frances L. Jones went home to the Lord on July 18, 2025. Born in December 1926, "Fran" lived 98+ glorious years enjoying family and serving others in her professional career. A service celebrating her life was held at Spence Funeral Home, in Manheim on July 26, 2025, followed by a burial service at Millersville Mennonite Cemetery.

Born to parents Harry and Ethel Lutz in Lancaster, Pa, Fran was a 1944 graduate of McCaskey High School. She is survived by her brother Harry Lutz and two sons, Thomas and Robert Jones. Fran had five granddaughters and 12 great grandchildren. Working at (then) Millersville State Teachers College, she met her late husband Richard Jones. They were married in 1953 at Grace Lutheran Church in Lancaster.

Fran's family relocated to State College, Pa., where Fran worked at Penn State University, before finishing her career at Indiana University of Pa. Colleagues remember her calm spirit, her "magic wand' for handling challenges in the payroll field, her elegant style and signature hairdo. After retirement, Fran returned to her roots in Lancaster, Pa., where she enjoyed time with grandkids and going to summer "Grandparents and Me" camps, Hershey's Butterfly House and Gardens, while serving in the local Iris Club and ushering at the Fulton Theater.

An avid artist, square dancer and ballet enthusiast, Fran served in the State College Women's Club where she participated in the annual "Follies!" She was a huge Penn State football fan and season ticket holder, while also attending Bowl Games in Miami, Orlando, New Orleans and Phoenix. The highlight was the 1986 Fiesta Bowl National Championship Game win over Univ. of Miami.

Fran's home was always adorned in floral pink and was known each year for her beautifully decorated pink Christmas tree. Fitting, she was laid to rest in a soft pink casket with bouquets of pink roses and assorted summer flowers. Her memory and loving motherly spirit will live strong in her family and friends, for many years and generations.