COLUMBUS
Frances Ann Anderson, 96, passed away peacefully on August 14, 2024, at her residence in Greentree at Westwood. Born March 26, 1928, in Ashley, Pennsylvania, she was the daughter of Frank and Anna Kovalchik Novick. She married Manford L. Anderson on November 10, 1965
Frances’s journey was one marked by intelligence and a genuine dedication to her family and country. She devoted 20 cherished years of her life to serving as an administrative assistant in the Pentagon. During that tenure, she supported the Army Surgeon General, the Air Force, and the Secretary of Defense with remarkable commitment and dedication. Her passion for the written word led her to excel also as a writer and editor for Airman Magazine, where her contributions left a lasting imprint
An avid reader, Frances found solace and adventure in books of every genre. Holidays were a special time for her, filled with warmth laughter, and friendly competition at the poker table with family.
Throughout her life, Frances was deeply committed to serving others, as reflected in her extensive work history and community involvement. She was a member of St.Bartholomew Catholic Church, the Potomac River Association, the Patuxent Beach Citizen Association, and the League of Women Voters. She also served with the Medical Arbitration Board, the Red Cross, and the Arthritis Foundation, and volunteered her time as a driver for the American Cancer Society.
She leaves behind a loving son, Michael (Virginia) Clarke; and a cherished daughter, Patricia (Serge) Ducharme. Her legacy extends through her grandchildren: John (Kelly) Clarke, Carla Clarke, Christine Hauther, Kathleen Hauther; Robert (Brenda) Thalls, Gary (Shannon) Thalls, Jeffrey (Staci) Ducharme, Marie-Claude (Sean) Ducharme-Kean, and Melanie Gravois; and her great-grandchildren, Johnny Clarke, Nick Thalls, Rachel (Parker) Campbell, Jordan Ducharme, Ryan Ducharme, Damian (Kimberly) Gravois; and Parker Brown.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her first husband, Vernon Lester Clarke; her second husband, Mandford L. Anderson; and her daughter, Catherine Ann Clarke Hauther.
A memorial mass to honor Frances’s life will be held Friday, August 23rd at St. Bartholomew Catholic Church with Father Chris Wadleton as celebrant. Friends may gather for visitation on Thursday, August 22 from 6 pm to 8 pm at Jewell-Rittman Family Funeral Home. Frances will be laid to rest at a later date at Arlington National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in her name may be made to the American Cancer Society.
Frances’s remarkable life will continue to be celebrated by all those touched by her gentle wisdom and enduring kindness.
You are invited to light a virtual candle of remembrance and send a message of condolence to the family online at www.jewellrittman.com.
