Frances Jefferson "Fran" Curtis of Locust Grove passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 7, 2012, at her home, surrounded by family.

She was born Sept. 20, 1936, in Danville, and raised in Newport News. She married her high school sweetheart, Robert Bickford Curtis, in 1955. Together they raised five children and have 12 grandchildren. In addition to her children and grandchildren, Fran is survived by her two dear sisters, Nancy Fenstermacher and Betty Gooch.

The family moved to the District of Columbia in 1967. Fran had a 35-year career in real estate and property management. She was a member of the National Association of Realtors. Upon retiring in 2005, she was managing the Lee's Hill community. At the same time she was diagnosed with Wegener's/Goodpasture's disease. She was on dialysis for a year before she received a kidney from her daughter. She referred to the time she had afterward as her "bonus days," even after a diagnosis of leukemia just seven months ago.

Fran made a lovely home in Lake of the Woods, where she and Bob lived for the past 16 years. Her special interests included gardening, particularly flowers; traveling; and "good conversation." She also was an accomplished artist, a member of the Windmore Art Group and had works displayed in juried shows around Fredericksburg. Fran was an active member of the Lake of the Woods Church, serving as Sunday school teacher and participating in the Shepherd ministry. She shared her faith through speaking and writing.

Fran loved her family and her Savior, Jesus Christ. Her desire was to finish strong and honor the Lord to the very last moment.

A memorial service will be held at noon Saturday, July 14, at the Lake of the Woods Church, Locust Grove.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Lake of the Woods Church, Youth Missions Programs, 1 Church Lane Locust Grove, Va. 22508.

An online guestbook and obituary are available at john soncares.com.